THE Heroine Musqueteer: OR, THE FEMALE Warrior. A TRUE HISTORY: Very delightful, and full of Pleasant Adventures in the Campagnes of 1676, & 1677.  
Translated out of French.  
London: Printed for James Mages and Richard Bentley, in Russel-street in Covent-Garden, near the Piazza's, and Richard Tonson near Grays-In-Gate in Grays-In-Lane. 1678.   

To the Right Honourable the Count De Louvigny, Governor of Navarre & Bearn.  
My Lord,  
IN making you a Present of the Heroine Musqueteer, I do but restore you what already belongs to you: Bearn, where she was born, is a Province so sensible of its Real Obligations to my Lord Marshal, your Father, and You, that the Honours paid you as Fathers of your Country, exceed those they own you as Governors of it. The kindness you have for the Province in general, and particularly for those of Bearn, is so well known, that many younger Brothers quit their Father's Houses with incredible Confidence, and run commonly into the Armies, without any thing to trust to but your Protection, which generally proves more useful to them than their Patrimony, by your bounty and liberality to such as are in need of it, and the Favours and Employments you help them to who deserve it. This, my Lord, gives me hopes you will vouchsafe your Protection to a Heroine you have engaged in the service by the Fame of your Great Actions in Poland, Flanders, Holland, and Germany, which sickness only and infirmities have been able to put a stop to. My interest, (had I no other reasons, would have engaged me to pay you this Homage, the best defence I could provide for my Book, being the prefixing your Name to it. It belongs properly to the Jurisdiction of the Fair Sex to pass sentence on Works of this Nature; and I have reason to believe my little Story, appearing under the Protection of a Person of your Quality (who are not only the greatest Gallant of the Court, but have the best Mien, and are most in favour with the Ladies) will be kindly received, as having been written only for your divertisement, and to give me the occasion of a public acknowledgement with what Profound Respect I am,  
My Lord, Your Lordship's most humble and most obedient Servant, Prechac.   

THE Heroine Musqueteer: OR, THE FEMALE WARRIOR.  

BEARN, though one of the least Provinces subject to the Crown of France, may be accounted among the most considerable, for the great number of Soldiers it sends into the Armies. It hath the honour of giving Birth to the Renowned Prince, Henry the Great, and the Privileges he granted it are sufficient proof of the esteem he had for the Inhabitants. And those who now serve the King in his Wars, have made it appear they have not degenerated from the virtues of their Ancestors. Besides, as if it were not enough for this Province to produce Heroes in an Age, when all parts of France furnish such plenty of them, it hath signalised itself in giving Birth to a Heroine, who seems to have forgot the infirmities of her Sex, to assume the vigour and generosity of the Masculine, without losing the beauty and sweetness of her own, and to compose of both, the most perfect Person in the Universe.  
Her Name is Christina, Daughter to the Baron of Meyrac, one of the most Eminent of the Province, though less known at Court than in his Country, where he spent all his days. He had an only Son brought up at the College of Pau whom he designed to send timely to Paris to learn his Exercises, the better to fit him for the King's service, in the Armies where he intended to provide him employment. Christina was bred at home with her Parents as their darling: she naturally had that strong inclination for Arms, she knew sooner how to discharge a Gun, than to handle a Distaff; and at nine years old could handle and use all sorts of Fire-arms with incredible dexterity. She was extremely averse from Learning to read, and to persuade her now and then to look on a Book, they were obliged to permit her to go a-hunting twice a week; but to purchase a pound of Powder she would do any thing, how difficult soever. This for a time was a divertisement to her Parents; till Christina having one day shot at Pigeons in a Barn full of Corn, it unfortunately took fire, which consumed a great part of it, though a great many hands were presently at work to quench it. At this, the Baron was so offended with his Daughter, that he would not see her for many days, nor pardon her, but upon condition she would never handle a Gun. Poor Christina was very glad to be readmitted upon any terms into the favour of a Father, so severe as she knew hers to be: but that way of living being quite against her temper, a week was scarce passed, but there appeared a visible alteration in her looks. This alarmed her Mother, who tenderly loved her, and having often, but in vain, endeavoured to prevail with her Husband in favour of his Daughter, to remit a little of the rigour of his orders; she ordered a Gun to be carried to a Neighbour's, where Christina, by agreement with her Mother, sometimes resorted: And not daring to go a-Hunting, lest the Father should know it, she shot at a mark for her exercise. This restraint but heightened her passion for Hunting and Shooting, as she made sufficiently appear by the advantages she took of her Father's absence, in a Journey about that time.  
The Baron in the Vacations sent for his Son home; and Hunting being the principal Recreation of Countrey-Gentlemen, scarce a day past, but his Son made a match with his Friends for that sport: He never went forth, but Christina was cruelly vexed, she could not make one of the Game; and when he returned, she was not less troubled for the pleasure she fancied he had enjoyed, and she was unjustly debarred from, and seeing her Brother come every day home laden with Game that he had taken, she could not forbear tormenting herself for fear he would leave none for her.  
One day, as the Baron and his Son were a-Hunting, a Farmer came to the Castle to make his complaint of the great spoil done in his Corn by a wild Boar, and to beg assistance for killing him. The Baroness being assured the Boar never failed coming to the Corn in the Twilight, promised to take order in it, and dismissed the Countryman. Christina having overheard the discourse, said not a word to her Mother, lest she might endeavour to divert her from her design; but charged her Gun with two bullets, and as it began to be dark, went away to the place the Countryman had spoken of; and to make the surer work, got up into a Tree a little distant from the Corn, with a resolution to wait there the coming of the Boar. The same Countryman having met the Baron's Son as he returned from Hunting, told him the story, who loath to lose so fair an occasion instantly turned back into the Field, and fearing he was come too late, stole gently a cross the Corn, and attended the Boar's coming near half an hour: But growing impatient of longer stay, he resolved to retire. His Sister in the Tree, not well able to discern what she imagined she saw, the Corn being high and night come on, made no doubt but it was the Boar stirring up and down; and to lose no time discharged her Gun, and killed her Brother. As he fell he cried out for help, which so troubled the unfortunate Christina, that she presently fell down from the top of the Tree. The Countryman running in at the noise of the Gun, immediately met Christina tearing herself like a Woman distracted, and thought the Boar had wounded her: He asked her several questions, which she answered not, but he took her up, and helped her to walk a few steps. When she found herself in a condition to go alone, she ordered him to make all the haste in his power to let the Baron know his Son lay dying, having been dangerously wounded by the Boar; with that she made away as fast as she could possibly, not knowing whither to betake herself. Having travelled above an hour she found herself near a Castle belonging to the Abbot Dizeste, who was extremely surprised to see her so bloated with crying, and at that time of the night. But Christina, having given him as good an account of her misfortune as she could in the case she was in, the Abbot who was her Fathers very near Kinsman, instantly got on Horseback, and arrived at the Castle, the very moment they brought in the body of the poor Gentleman, who having lost much blood for want of help, died in the Arms of the Chirurgeon who first dressed him. All things in the Castle were in such a confusion, the Abbot could not learn the truth of the accident. The people would needs believe the Boar had killed the Gentleman, though they found two bullets in his body: But the Baron and his Lady, not finding Christina, made no doubt but it was her act; and though they believed she had done't by misfortune, the Baron was so transported with passion, for the loss of his Son, that he made search for his Daughter all over the Town, with his Pistol in his hand, to sacrifice her to his Wrath. The Abbot being told of it, ran after him, and having said to him all that might be expected on such an occasion, he brought him back to the Castle, where he made use of many tedious discourses to comfort him, but all to no purpose. Two Capuchins came in at the noise of the disaster; and the Abbot having left them the care of comforting of the Baron, returned home to bring Christina the news of her Brother's Death, and the danger she was in, if her Father should discover where she was; yet he assured her of his protection, and that he would never forsake her.  
Returning two days after to Meyrac, he was not a little surprised to find the Capuchins exhortations had not abated in the least the grief of the Baron, nor diminished his anger, but that he persisted in his resolution to be the death of his Daughter, and would not admit of his Wife into his presence, because she had been prevailed upon to speak to him a word or two, in favour of the unfortunate Christina. This obliged the Abbot to hold a conference with two or three Kinsmen more of the Barons, and to debate the business with them, and find out some means to save her from her Father's resentment. After long discourse, it was agreed she should be sent into Spain; and Arragon being not above nine or ten Leagues from Bearn, and the Abbot having a Brother settled at Saragosa many years, he was entreated to bear her company thither, and recommend her to his Brother, which he readily promised. Christina, troubled as she was, received with joy the result of this conference, and put herself in a posture to be gone on the morrow, according to order: but the Abbot having reflected in the night on the consequences of the intended Journey, found in it so many difficulties, that he had almost altered his resolution by morning. He foresaw the beauty of Christina would make a great noise in a strange Country, being at twelve years old far taller and handsomer than Maids of that Age ordinarily are, and especially in Spain, where the Women are generally very low: besides, he apprehended the frank humour of his Kinswoman, and the inclinations she had so different from the rest of her Sex, would hardly ever agree with the Genius of a Nation, where Women are obliged to live with a great deal of circumspection, and that it might prove very troublesome to his Brother. But the business was urgent, and he must resolve: Christina perceiving him waver, asked him the reason; he acquainted her with the difficulties he apprehended, and added, it was not decent or fit a young Maid should run rambling into a strange Country. Christina longing to get out of her Father's reach, whom she feared, and having a passionate desire to see Spain, proposed to the Abbot, that if he would give her leave, she would put on Boy's : And that she might have a plausible pretence for staying in Spain, he need no more but tell his Brother he brought him a young Kinsman to learn Spanish, and study some Months in the University of Saragosa. The Abbot at first boggled at the proposal as ridiculous and childish. But finding her persist in it, and promising she would so disguise herself, they should never discover her Sex, he was persuaded by her. And having caused her to be privately put into a habit suitable to her inclinations, he thought she became it so well, that he made no more scruples, but parted the next day with her for Saragosa. Being arrived there, they were received by his Brother with incredible joy and abundance of thanks, that he would trust him with the Education of a Kinsman of so promising a mien. The Abbot returned, and Don Lorenzo his Brother, took pleasure in making provision of necessaries for his young Kinsman. Scholars in Spain wear long, lose, black Vests like the Jesuits; a Habit that served very well to make Christina look taller and handsomer, and her Hair being of a delicatbrown, and cut after the Spanish-mode, had an admirable effect upon the beholders. She no sooner appeared in the University, but she drew after her the Eyes and the Hearts of the Students. It is incredible what an advantage this was to the French Nation; for Spain being a Country inconvenient for Travellers, few Persons of Quality go thither. And they seldom have amongst them any French, unless it be some poor Labourers of the Mountains of Auvergne, Limosin, and Bigorre, who for very small wages do all manner of Drudgery. And the Spaniards, who are naturally lazy, are willing to employ Frenchmen who serve them for money. This is the reason the People of those countries', who seldom travel abroad, slight the French as they do, judging of the whole Nation by those they see amongst them. This general prejudice heightened their astonishment, who admired the beauty of Christina, and called her The Handsome Frenchman. Every one strove to be acquainted with the Stranger; and her Reputation was in a short time so well settled at Saragosa, that those of the best Quality there ordered their Children, to get acquaintance with the young Frenchman, and to make him their Friend.  
The Marquis d'Osseyra then a Student there, went every morning to take him with him in his Coach to the University, and Don Philip de Palafox, Sonto th●e Marquis d'Arizza, brought him back for the most part in his. He visited these two young Lords oftener than any other, especially the Marquis d'Osseyra, who took pleasure to teach him Spanish, and tell him when he spoke amiss. This Gentleman had a Sister married to the Marquis d'Aytona; who having heard an excellent Report of the handsome Frenchman, desired her Brother to bring him with him to her House, proposing to herself the pleasure to be expected from the Conversation of two young Lads of their Age. But she found it more charming, and was so satisfied with the first Visit, that she prayed her Brother to bring him often to her; being extremely delighted to see him and hear him speak. To engage him to come again, she presented him with a Sword, and her Brother with another; which they carried commonly under their Gowns, as the Scholars in Spain usually do. This Present was fatal to them both: For as they were going homewards one Evening very late, they met other Scholars who knew the Handsom-Frenchman, and could not forbear (out of a Natural-antipathy against the French) to give him ill-language and call him French-bougre. The Marquis d'Osseyra, thinking himself concerned in their ill-usage and incivility, and not daunted with the number of his Enemies, charged them vigorously with his Sword in his hand. The Handsom-Frenchman seconded him so well, that they two beat back five Men above thirty paces; till putting on too far, they were at last forced to give Ground, oppressed with numbers of fresh assailants. The Marquis had a slight wound on the Face; and the Handsom-Frenchman received a went sometimes with him to the Comedies and Operas: About that time was presented the Opera of Cadmus, and took very much; D'Angosse made use of the occasion to take Places for S. Aubin and himself, in a Box, overnight. Having received his Ticket, he sent the Duchess word of it, and advised her and the Marchioness to take Places in the Box right against them, to have the better view of S. Aubin; which was done accordingly. D' Angosse and S. Aubin having taken their Places, the two Ladies little minded the Opera, being wholly taken up with viewing S. Aubin. Having taken exact notice of him, they thought they were not deceived this time; yet the Duchess, who could scarce believe a Maid capable to run through so many Adventures, would be better satisfied. She sent for a Lackey, who was a witty Fellow; and having showed him S. Aubin, bid him put off his Livery, and having put on another Coat, follow that Gentleman when he went out of the Playhouse; but be sure to do it so closely that she might have a certain account where he lodged. The Lackey performed, and gave his Mistress an account. She and the Marchioness resolved on a Frolic to try if S. Aubin were in truth the Heroine Musqueteer, as they were made believe: After several Expedients, proposed and rejected, they pitched upon sending him a Billet that Evening, which was to this effect,  
Whoever you are, you are a dangerous Gentleman. I never saw you but once at the Opera, and you force me to a confession which the handsomest Gentlemen of France have, by long service and great assiduity, in vain endeavoured to draw from me: I love you, Sir, and am ashamed to let you know it, yet pleased with the thought of it. How great soever you are you must expect no more. I desire a quarter of an hours discourse with you: my Quality debars me entertaining a stranger in Public: follow this Lackey, he will bring you to a sight of me. If afterwards you think me worthy the esteem and addresses of a Man of Honour, I dare not pass my word, but Time and your good Mien may triumph over my weakness.  
They read the Billet several times over: The Duchess thought it too free, and would have burnt it; but the Marchioness told her it mattered not, being written to a Maid, and by an unknown hand. The Duchess, swayed with these Reasons, called for the Lackey; and having instructed him what to do, gave him strict charge of the Billet. The Lackey being come to the House where S. Aubin was quartered, went to his Apartment and delivered him the Billet; which he read, and was not a little surprised. Having read it, he was very much perplexed, having a thousand thoughts in his head, not knowing what course to take: He was fearful of engaging in an affair might be difficult to get rid of: On the other side, he knew that a Lady of Quality, if slighted, is a dangerous Enemy: This, and his natural Curiosity, made him desire the Lady's acquaintance. He read the Billet over again, and seeing nothing desired but what he thought might be granted, and judging others as reserved as himself, he resolved to follow the Lackey; and having wrapped up himself in a Cloak, bid the Boy lead the way. Probably the Reader may think a Maid scarce capable of such a Resolution; but he is to consider our Heroine was naturally courageous and bold, yet as tender of her honour (in the Essentials) as the most reserved. I have heard her say, she thought herself safer in Man's Habit, than that of her Sex; as exposing her more to discourse commonly used to Women, if tolerably handsome, which at length leaves an impression. About Eleven a Clock the Footboy led him through a little Gate, of which he had the Key for the purpose; S. Aubin stayed in a Closet while the Lackey gave notice of it to the Duchess, who was then with the Marchioness. It surprised them to hear the Gentleman was come, as appointed; they began to repent their hasty engagement, fearing they should meet with a second Marquis de Mesples. The Duchess being a Lady of eminent Virtue, and highly concerned to preserve her Reputation, was upon sending him away without seeing him; and possibly had done it, but for fear of her Letter, which S. Aubin, if a Man, (as for aught she knew he was) might make very ill use of: The desire she had to have it again in her hands, and her natural Curiosity, made her resolve to admit him entrance. The first Civilities being over, S. Aubin being alone with the two Ladies, who eyed him very narrowly, appeared so handsome that they believed him of their Sex. The Duchess, willing to get her Billet into her hands, told him he might perhaps have a very ill opinion of a Lady who appeared so forward, yet she thought she could not do too much to make sure of so handsome a Gentleman: The Lady you see with me is my Confident, and we two framed the Billet I sent you. I fear it may appear too passionate, and being not so well acquainted with you as to leave in your hands a Paper of that freedom, I desire you to restore it me: hereafter possibly I may know you so well, as to put my Reputation into your hands. S. Aubin presently took it out of his Pocket, and the Duchess receiving it threw it in the Fire: and changing her tone, I must confess Sir, says she, my Curiosity hath exposed me to a great deal of folly. We have read a Book, called The Heroine Musqueteer, and had a desire to be acquainted with so extraordinary a Person. We were assured she was at Paris, and that you were intimate with her: you will highly oblige us to bring us acquainted with her. S. Aubin was so astonished at the discourse he had not a word to say. The Marchioness perceiving it, made use of that Moment for the trial she had unhappily made upon Mesples, and found whad she looked for: The Ladies embraced our Heroine, and made her a thousand obliging offers of their services. Christina, ashamed to see herself discovered, answered them with as much civility as the disorder she was in would permit. The Duchess conjured her to tell her sincerely if all that was written of her was true. Christina declared what was true, and what was of the Author's invention. The Duchess was so well satisfied with our Heroine's modesty and discourse, that she pressed her very much to take a Chamber in her House, assuring her she should be used as a Person of Quality and Merit. Christina refused, and gave so good reasons for it that the Duchess was satisfied, but prayed her to visit her as often as possible: Christina promised it, and after a long discourse, and mutual promises of secrecy, retired. But for all their assurance of keeping her Counsel, she doubted their performance; and could not rely on their discretion without scruple and diffidence, which gave her no small disquiet.  
About this time S. Aubin received news from Bearn, that upon a report of his death some of his Kindred had possessed themselves of part of his Estate. The Abbot Dizett who had the management of his Affairs advised him to make a Journey to Bearn, to dissipate, by his presence, the false reports of his death, and to take order for other matters. S. Aubin loath to go so far from the Marquis D' Osseyra, and expecting, with impatience, the end of the Campaign in order to Marriage, chose rather to hazard the loss of his Estate, than engage in business that would rob him of those precious Moment's he thought better bestowed in thinking of his Love. Upon a second Letter to the same purpose, S. Aubin desired D' Angosse to undertake the business; he readily took the Charge of it, and set out for Bearn within two days.  
S. Aubin reflecting on his Engagement to visit the Duchess, thought himself indispensably obliged to be as good as his word. He went to her, and was kindly received; there was commonly good Company there. S. Aubin was treated in so obliging a manner, that every one took notice of it, and enquired who that young Gentleman was, and very few knew him. A Principal Lord of the Court had long been in Love with the Duchess and visited her frequently, but found his addresses fruitless, and had no further advantage by them, than an opportunity to gain an interest in the Servants by his Liberality. He was not discouraged by the severe Virtue of the Duchess from seeing her often, in hopes to prevail with her at Long-run. The Count d' Ex (for so was the Gentleman called) was so far in Love that he easily became jealous, and could not with patience endure to see how familiarly the Duchess conversed with this Stranger: He questioned the Maids of his Party about it, but they could not give him a satisfactory account; the Lackeys were as much to seek as the Maids. He whom the Duchess had employed to carry the Billet to S. Aubin being no more proof than others of his Coat to the temptations of Gain, and finding no advantage from being his Mistresses Confident, would not slip the opportunity of getting something from the Count on this occasion. He told the Count of the Billet, and how he thought the Duchess became first engaged with the Stranger, not forgetting the Passage at the Opera. Here I cannot forbear blaming the injustice of most Men, to be so easily persuaded of the ill Conduct of Women: How many are there who are very virtuous, yet have not escaped being condemned for debauched, upon the Report of a Maidservant dissatisfied, or a Foot boy misinformed? This Report passes to other Women, and seldom fails of coming to the Ears of one or other, who will be glad of the occasion to speak as ill of another, as she knows herself to be deservedly spoken of; and will be sure to divulge it very carefully, in hopes to confound the Criminal with the Innocent: The Story loses nothing by the Carriage, every one adds something to set it off the better; and there needs no more to destroy a Woman's Reputation: Of which, I could give you several Instances.  
The Count was much surprised at the discourse of the Lackey: He believed it without examination, and his Jealousy made him believe much more: It failed not to represent to him, that a Stranger of Quality, perhaps as obscure as his Name, was in favour with a Lady of her Merit and Rank, when she slighted him who was inferior to few in the Kingdom, for handsomeness, Birth, or Employment. This made him resolve to be revenged of his Mistress, by depriving her of her Favourite. The Count, though otherwise very civil, was hasty of humour, and fiery: His Jealousy required him to make his Rival a Victim, which the goodness of his Nature would hardly consent to: It would have been no hard matter to ruin his Rival, but his revenge would not have been complete, if some part of it fell not on his Mistress. After much irresolution, he pitched upon a fatisfaction no less cruel, than gallant: He had a Domestic, very witty and intelligent, to whom he discovered his design, and told him he intended to trust him with the execution; that his first care must be to find out a Wench who had been debauched through want of Money and Experience, and liked it so well that she continued the Trade; that he could not fail of choice in so great a Town, and therefore must pick out the handsomest he could find, but she must be such as could do him a kindness he should have cause to remember while he lived: And to that purpose, he was not to spare cost or pains; but withal, to put her into excellent Habit, lodge her in the best Apartment of the House, and instruct her how to counterfeit, in her deportment, a Lady of Quality. The Servant found a Person excellently qualified for the service his Master desired from her, and so witty that she quickly learned her Lesson. This was so well performed, that the Count, who had resolved to have S. Aubin stolen away, committed the care of it to the same Servant; and took him along with him to the Duchess' to show him S. Aubin, to prevent a mistake. S. Aubin went commonly in a Chair, and usually retired from the Duchess' at ten or eleven Clock at Night. The Count's Servant having made the Chair-men drunk, got others to wait in their room: S. Aubin, at coming off from the Duchess, not finding his Chair-men, made use of the next at hand. Three Men, well-armed, had order to guard the Chair: One of them, by the way, whispers S. Aubin in the Ear, that a Lady of Quality, being passionately in Love with him, had ordered them to steal him to her: adding, 'twas in vain to resist, for they were able to force him. St. Aubin, though surprised at the Compliment, was so used to extraordinary Adventures, that he permitted himself to be quietly carried where the pretended good Fortune waited him: As soon as he was arrived, two Men seized him, and led him in the dark up a back stair; and having crossed two Apartments, thrust him somewhat rudely into a Chamber full of Lights, and nobly furnished: One of them who brought him thither took care to shut the Door fast enough. The Illustrious Personage, who was there ready to receive him, would not give him time to know her, but took him about the Neck with demonstrations of a passionate joy, as true as what is affected can be; you would have thought the rich Habit she was in had made her forget the meanness of her condition. S. Aubin, resolved what to do, was not daunted at all, but answered her passion with all the civility and respect imaginable: But these were not the Entertainment she looked for, and after long discourse the fair Lady having in vain endeavoured by an affected modesty to raise the Gentleman's Spirits, was quite tired with his reservedness, and attributing his want of boldness to the trouble he said he was in at sight of her; I come not, says she, to give you trouble, but to receive Love from you: At this, she hide her face with her Fan, as if she had been ashamed she had let fall expressions so free. S. Aubin, who thought of nothing more than how to get well out of the Briers, was in some hopes observing her modesty, and assured her he had a great inclination to love her, that he was unworthy so much favour, but would make it his business to merit it by his services: I will dispense with you in that point, replies she, and, since I must tell you all, I desire we may spend this night together: S. Aubin who could not believe what he had heard say of the impudence of some women, and expected not so very plain English, stood a while mute; And seeing no other course to take fell at her feet (whom he thought a person of Quality) and confessed ingenuously he was a Woman: The poor Wench who was made believe she should be largely rewarded, was in a lamentable fear to lose what was promised her, if it were once known she had not not done the service expected from her: which troubled her the more, for that she had designed the money for several necessary uses, particularly for getting rid of that which made her so fit for the present purpose of her paymaster, she then fell at S. Aubins feet, and told him word by word all the intrigue, advertising him the master of the house (whom she knew not) was jealous of some person of quality. It was no hard Matter for S. Aubin to guests it was the Duchess, and reflecting with horror on the Regale provided for him, he made the Wench sensible it was their common interest to keep mutual secrecy, which was accordingly promised, and having agreed what to say; the Wench went to bed, which she took care to tumble so as if two had lain there: S. Aubin lay upon the stools. And on the morrow a little before day the Wench went according to order to give, a boy who was in an antichamber hard by, notice of what past, assuring him he might when he pleased send away the Gallant who was so sound peppered she undertook he should never forget that night's work. The boygave his Master this account, and he was very well satisfied. He sent the Wench word she should blindfold her lover, and persuade him to be led so into the place Royal, it being too early to get a Chair: and it might concern her how she got rid of him. S. Aubin well pleased to see an end of an adventure had so terribly frighted him; forgot not to give her who had so faithfully served him, some marks of his acknowledgement: His virtue prompted him to exhort her to live honestly, which he seconded with giving her some means to do it, he followed his guides, and assoon as he was at liberty went to his lodging to bed.  
When he had rested sufficiently he went to the Duchesses assoon as he thought her in a condition to to be seen, and prayed her to send one for the Marchioness, assuring her she had news to tell them would make them very merry: Assoon as she was come they locked themselves up in a room where S. Aubin told them the particulars of the adventure he had met with the night before: The Duchess, who very well knew the kindness the Count had for her, and was sufficiently acquainted with his jealous humour, presently suspected he had the principal hand in it, which was confirmed by the circumstances, S. Aubin related. To put it out of doubt, they agreed that S. Aubin should not for two days appear at the Duchesses, and that when first the Count came thither, the Marchioness should insensibly fall into discourse of S. Aubin, and the Duchess should express much sorrow for his sickness; which would certainly produce a discovery of the Count's thoughts of the business. S. Aubin vanished, the Count came, as he was wont, to the Duchess, and saved the Marchioness the trouble of the discourse agreed on, by ask the Duchess why she looked so sad: The Marchioness answered that S. Aubin, whom the Duchess had a value for, was sick, and that she was troubled for want of his good company: the Count was so glad at the news that he could not forbear ask very merrily what he ailed; the Marchioness, who knew the reason of the question, said she knew not, and proceeded no further.  
The Duchess, who lived very lovingly with her Husband, had told him the story of Christina, and how she had got acquaintance with that maid in Man's Clothes: And being glad of an occasion to make him merry, she scrupled not to tell him the adventure of the Count, at which they laughed very hearty.  
It was a fine time for going into the Country: The Duke having a house within fifteen Leagues of Paris, was minded to spend some time there, and told his Wife she would do him a pleasure to bring some good company thither. The Marchioness being a very Jovial Lady promised to make one; they had a great desire to have S. Aubin along with them, and the Duchess had invited him two or three times but could not prevail: when he came to take his leave of these Ladies the day before their departure, the Marchioness told him, if he would not go along with them she would discover the secret of his sex. S. Aubin was loath to go far from Paris for fear of exposing himself (as 'tis said) to new adventures, though it was for another reason; yet he was so moved with the Marchioness' threats that he resolved to go along: the Duke was very glad, and they promised all to keep S. Aubins' Council. When they were got into the Country the Lady's thought of nothing but their pleasures; Hunting, Gaming, walking and making good cheer took up their time: The Duchess having considered that the Count continued his mistake, and still thought her Criminal, was troubled she had not undeceived him, she spoke of it to her Husband who thought she had reason, it being ever to a Lady's disadvantage to give any cause of suspecting her Conduct. They resolved the Duke should write him a Letter to invite him into the Country: The Count who thought very ill of that Journey the Duchess had taken, though he did not know S. Aubin went with her, was glad the Duke had given him the occasion of visiting them, and imagined the Duke had written without acquainting his Duchess. He got thither within two days, and was surprised to find so good company; there care was taken at his first arrival to have S. Aubin out of the way. After Supper the Marchioness said, she had lighted that day on the pleasantest story in the World: they prayed her to acquaint the company with it; she excused herself saying, she had a very ill memory: with that, she stepped a little from the table, and taking a book out of her pocket where she had writ what she had to say, she pretended to make use of it to help her memory, and said that a person of quality had been jealous of a Maid in Man's Clothes, and so went ongiving an exact and particular account of all that happened to S. Aubin at the Counts, and how he had been deceived when he thought himself revenged: the Duke and his Duchess the mean while observed the Count, who knowing himself by the description to be the party intended, changed colour and countenance at every word: The Marchioness having made a stop at the feigned sickness of S. Aubin, the Duchess was earnest to know if the Count had been disabused: The Marchioness takes her Book in hand, and read that; the Lady principally concerned, went shortly after into the Country, and having scrupled the leaving the Count in a mistake so disadvantageous to her, had prayed her Husband to invite the Count to come and visit them. But how did she justify herself, says the Duchess, my Book says no more replies the Marchioness. This Gentleman, the Count being newly arrived from Paris, may probably inform you. Never was Man more out of Countenance than he: The Duke pitying the Disorder he was in, told him S. Aubin was, The Heroine Musqueteer; the Count begged the Duchess pardon, giving her many sorry reasons to justify himself, which she little valued: They sent for S. Aubin having first engaged the Count not to discover the secret: they had good laughing at the adventure; but the Count was so confounded at it that he durst no more speak to the Duchess, and shortly after returned to Paris.  
S. Aubin in the mean time was not so merry as formerly, the same reason that stopped his Journey to Bearn would not permit him to be long absent from Paris with patience: He expected news from the Marquis D' Osseyra, but received not any, though they had taken care to agree a way to maintain a Correspondence. As he was walking one day with the Duchess, he spied three Spanish Soldiers returning home-wards from Flanders, he spoke to them in Spanish and asked them a hundred questions about the Marquis D' Osseyra: One of the Soldiers hearing him repeat so often the Marquess' name, asked him boldly if he knew him, and had any concern with him. I have been his prisoner, says S. Aubin, and he used me so well I shall acknowledge it while I live: The Duchess perceiving by S. Aubins' countenance how glad he was to discourse with the strangers, was willing to give him time enough to do it at his leisure, and ordered one of her Servants to entertain them that day, and take care of them: They were scarce got into the House, but S. Aubin found them out, and addressing himself to the Soldier, who seemed best acquainted with the Marquis, he asked a Thousand particulars concerning him. The Soldier astonished to find a Gentleman so acknowledging, and perceiving him the Marquess' very good friend, confessed he was his domestic, and had by the way met with those two Soldiers going for Spain: But as for him he went nofurther than Paris, on business from his Master: S. Aubin Ravished at the news, and thinking himself concerned in the Journey, asked if he had not Letters for Christina: The Spaniard astonished to find him so wellacquainted with the Marquess' affairs, told him he had several for her; give 'em me then says Christina, forgetting herself to be S. Aubin. The Spaniard looked attentively on him, and with the cool gravity usual in those of his Nation, answered he would rather part with his life: I am Christina's Brother and a good friend of your Masters, says S. Aubin. And you may trust me with them: but the Spaniard was not to be persuaded out of them. Christina seeing it and being impatient to have a sight of Letters she so dearly longed for, confessed she was Christina and had that day disguised herself into Man's habit for hunting: Old birds are not caught with chaff, says the Spaniard, I'll as soon part with my life as my Letters, which he bound with two or three Spanish oaths, and quitting S. Aubin went straight to his Comrades and set forward immediately for Paris: S. Aubin was upon the point of following them to set upon them by the way, and force the Letters from them; but fearing the Consequence of an action so rash in a Kingdom where such violence is not allowed, he prayed the Duchess to give order for horses to carry him presently to Paris, fearing if the Spaniard missed of him there, he would return presently for Flanders. The Duchess not knowing the reason of this haste, endeavoured very civilly to engage him to longer stay. S. Anbin vexed at her unseasonable civility acquainted her with what had passed between him and the Spaniard: The Duchess in compassion to a Lover's impatience sent horses the same day to wait S. Aubins coming by the way, who on the morrow went off in her Coach, and in a short time arrrived at Paris. He failed not to go to the place where he knew the Marquis would address his Letters, and thought it requisite to put on woman's habit, lest the incredulous Spaniard should scruple delivering him the packet: soon after the Spaniard arrived, and having desired to speak with Christina, he delivered the Letters, applauding himself much that he had not trusted them with a young Gentleman who would have surprised him with untruths: But he had mistaken his mark, for he could have rather parted with his life than his Letters: Christina more intent about reading her Letters than hearing his bravadoes, opened several which pleased her well: I would have inserted them here for the Readers satisfaction, but there are a sort of Letters very good for the writer and for the party they are written to, but flat and insipid to others who have not the key to understand the meaning and apprehend the delicacy of them: I shall only give you one I thought easiest to be understood.  
Attribute my silence to the Excess of my Love: when my letters are written I look upon them as yours, which makes them so dear to me That I cannot find in my heart to expose them to the danger of falling into the hands of strangers. By all those I send you by the express, you will find you wholly take up my thoughts. It is an age since the beginning of this Campagne: why should the imanary progress of our armies stop that of my Love. If possible draw near one of the conquered Towns that I may have the pleasure at last to think I am not far from you, and that if we lay a siege, as the discourse is, I may flatter myself with the hopes of having you my prisoner: But for Heaven's sake, be not in the place, for I foresee the Cannon will be ill served when I think it may be discharged against you. And I would choose rather to lose my office than do it on such an occasion.  
Christina in Reading the several Leters had all the joy a person in love is capable of after long expectation of news from her Lover.  
This was her Answer.  
I am very well pleased with your Letters: they are all very passionate. But you alarm me in telling me you are going to form a siege. I tremble for you that the success will not answer your hopes: Let me entreat you to think of nothing but loving me, there you are sure of Conquest, the other is uncertain. I will draw towards the Frontiers, because you desire it; I know I shall be better at ease, and I take pleasure beforehand to think I shall hear from you oftener: Make an end of this Campain as soon as you can, Love will make you amends for the damage your glory suffers by it.  
Christina sent back the Marquess' Man with this answer, and resumed her Man's Habit, and the Name of S. Aubin.  
D' Angosse in the mean time was returned from Bearn, and had, with the help of the Abbot d' Izette, happily ended what he had to do there on S. Aubin's account, and much to his advantage; for which D' Angosse expected no small acknowledgement. He could not imagine but Christina would at length be sensible of his affection for her: And when S. Aubin would have made him a considerable Present, proportionable to the service he had done him, D' Angosse took it for an affront, and told Christina he thought himself not unworthy of her affection. S. Aubin was so well acquainted with the boldness natural to those of his Country, that it surprised him not at all: But to undeceive him, once for all, told D' Angosse he had a very high esteem and value for him, and would evidence it on all occasions; but entreated him for the future to order his thoughts better, than to give him occasion to forbear his company, and forbidden him further Visits; which he would infallibly do, if he continued to discourse him at that bold rate. D' Angosse was too much a Gascon to be discouraged at this, so that S. Aubin, to be rid of troublesome importunities, was forced to change his Lodging.  
There was about this time, a report that the Confederate Army had invested Charleroy, and begun already to form the Siege: Most of the young Gentlemen at Court, and other Volunteers, left Paris upon the news, and went for the French Army, not doubting but the Marshal Luxemburg, who Commanded it, would attack the Enemy in their Lines. The Army increased extremely in two or three days, Volunteers coming in Post from all Parts, and not finding Horses on the great Roads, some were forced to take byways to furnish themselves, that they might come in time. The Marquis de Fervaques, willing to be there with the first, to signalise himself on this, and other occasions, had the misfortune to be taken by the way, by a Party of the Enemies. The Officer who Commanded the Party, having seized some Books among Monsieur Fervaques' Baggage, opened one, which proved the Heroine Musqueteer: the Title made him eager to read it. This Officer had been bred Page to the Marquis D' Osseyra, and not a little surprised to find the Marquess' Name so often in the Book, he sent it the Marquis, who was extremely astonished at it.  
While every one wondered at the Confederates Resolution to lay Siege to Charleroy, having formerly attempted it in vain. S. Aubin alarmed to hear the expedition generally cried down as rash and unadvised, and all France confident it would come to nothing, began to be afraid for the Marquis D' Osseyra. He had not the patience to wait information, by the Public News, what was become of the Marquis; but pushed on by a love, to which no difficulty was insuperable, rid Post to Charleroy, pretending the cause of his Journey to be only a desire of honour, natural to the French Gentry: Every Horseman he met by the way he fancied might me a Courier to carry news of the defeat of the Confederates. But when he came to the Army, he found the Confedederates had been so wise to save him the fright his Love might have put him to for danger to the Marquis. They had, upon the approach of the King's Army, raised the Siege, as the best of their Game. The Confederates having made a very good Retreat, S. Aubin saw there was no cause of further fear on their account, the Marquis D' Osseyra being safe; but he could not find in his heart to return for Paris, without giving the Marquis notice: He was so pleased with being so near the Man he loved best of any living, that he resolved to stay in Flanders: And having engaged himself in the beginning of the Campain to spend some time at Valenciennes, at Mariana's Fathers, he took that occasion to continue nearer the Marquis: And considering it would be difficult hearing from him at Valenciennes, where Count Magalotti the Governor was very strict to prevent intelligence with the Enemy, he made sure beforehand of a Ligeois Lad, who under pretence of carrying Victuals, went indifferently to both Armies; and was admitted into the Spanish, as well as French Towns. The Ligeois having promised to serve him faithfully, he went into Valenciennes, and sent the Boy into the Spanish Army with this Letter.  
Your Enterprise of Charleroy put me in such a fright, that I could not wait the success in quiet: How could I be at rest, when I was to expect every hour designs against you●  I went, judge what condition I was in, who could not wish the glory of my Country, without giving an alarm to my Love; nor pray for your prosperity, without breach of my allegiance: Make me a-mends for the trouble you have caused me, by letting me hear often from you at Valenciennes, where I resolve to stay and see what will become of you.  
When the Ligeois came to the Confederate Army to deliver the Letter, he found all in disorder there, by misunderstanding between the Generals; one blaming the other for the miscarriage of the business of Charleroy. He was told the Spaniards were withdrawn and that the Marquis D' Osseyra, Commanded a Body apart about Ghent: The Ligeois found him there, and having delivered the Letter, the Marquis rewarded him so, that he had cause to wish he might have more such Letters to carry, and soon after sent him back with this Answer.  
I am extremely obliged to you for the fright you were in, though it be the greatest harm our Army hath done. We are so used to ill success, we are not at all moved at it: yet I should be he artily sorry for it, but that I am persuaded you make a difference between me and others; and believe did I act a part, I would alarm you oftener. But why should our Billets still speak of War, which ought to be full of sweetness and tenderness? Do you know, our business is grown Public, and that there's a Book Printed, Entitled The Heroine Musqueteer? Since we are made the Subject of Romances, let's make an end as soon as we can, and enjoy the fruits of our Love, without diverting the Public any longer at our cost.  
This Letter was delivered S. Aubin at Valenciennes, where he was received by Mariana's Parents with Demonstrations of very great joy, and Evidences of a sincere kindness. They flattered themselves still with the hopes of having him their Son-in-Law; and being confirmed in this opinion, by his return, they made him very welcome, and gave him the best entertainment they could. Only Mariana appeared troubled at the sight of S. Aubin: An Italian Captain in Magalottes' Regiment, had, by his subtle insinuations, got that advantage over the simplicity of the honest Hemyn, that she told him all that had passed between her and S. Aubin; and the design of her Parents to make her his Wife, notwithstanding his great indifference for her. The Italian pretending himself very much concerned for her, used all his endeavours to undeceive her thoughts of that chimerical Marriage, assuring her, S. Aubin who apparently was a person of quality, had no thoughts of marrying her, having not as much as writ her a line since he left her: I know, adds he, the French well enough, they engage themselves with women only for divertisement, Ambition and the thirst of Glory are their predominant passion: But, 'tis no small prejudice to a fair Lady so lovely as you are, to be exposed to the slights of a presumptuous youngster, who perhaps makes sport in his Country with the obliging offers your parents have made him.  
Mariana having been frequently discouraged thus, found it no hard matter to forget S. Aubin: And the Captain finding her so well disposed, failed not to offer her his service; and to make her sensible of the great desire he had to merit her good opinion. 'tis no wonder a young maid who fancied all Men as shy as S. Aubin, should be taken at last with the assiduity of a smooth tongued, and cunning Italian. Love, that you may be loved is a maxim seldom fails, and whether it were that the Captain was in love with Mariana, or pretended it only, she was quickly comforted for the absence of S. Aubin by the care this Italian took to entertain her with frequent discourses of the passion he had for her, and the indifference of S. Aubin: when he returned to Valenciennes she had disposed of her affection, and all her Parents cares to the Frenchman were but so many pieces of mortification to Mariana, who complained of them to the Captain. But when she reflected on her obligations to him, and the pleasure of being beholding to so handsome a Gentleman, her sense of gratitude could not but reproach her for loving another. She acquainted the Italian with her reflections, who alarmed at the discourse, made use of all the interest his subtleties had gained in the credulous Girl: And considering he might never have so good an opportunity for making his fortune, he was so fearful S. Aubins presence might revive Mariana's former inclinations, and so loath to lose what he thought himself almost master of, that he made use of such means to make sure of Mariana, it was not in her parent's power to dispose of her to another. He forgot neither promise nor oath, and pressed her so hard that she thought it but reasonable togrant him the highest favours his love could expect: her mother reproached her for entertaining the Captain so constantly and slighting S. Aubin. But her Mother's discourse and S. Aubins cold civilities were merely thrown away upon her, who had received such effectual proof of the Captain's kindness: S. Aubin was so taken up with writing Letters to the Marquis D' Osseyra, and so pleased with reading his answers, that 'tis no wonder he concerned not himself much with other people's business. Mariana having improved her wit by conversing with the Italian, advised him to get acquaintance with S. Aubin, as an infallible means to be welcome to her parents, by reason of the esteem and kindness they had for that Frenchman. Another man would have scrupled seeing a Rival so dangerous as S. Aubin, but an Italian hath an absolute command of his passion: The Captain dissembling the hatred he had for S. Aubin on marianas account, did him all the civilities imaginable, of which the Italians never are Niggard's; S. Aubin as courteously returned them. The ouning Italian easily had the advantage of the Frenchmen that in a short time they were intimate Friends: and the Captain to discover S. Aubins' designs upon Mariana frequently made her the subject of their discourse. S. Aubin frankly declared he had an esteem for her, The Captain willing to try him further, and know whether he loved her, replied cunningly that few are satisfied with a bare esteem of a young Lady of Mariana's qualities: I can go no further, says S. Aubin, I have endeavoured to disabuse her parents; and should be very sorry they should for hopes which can never take effect, let slip the opportunities of settling their daughter. The Italian well satisfied with an answer so agreeable to his desires, concluded from S. Aubins' discourse he was very well born, and thought not of matching into an inferior family, which made him ever after make his Court to S. Aubin with extraordinary deference.  
Mariana's Father was every day more and more charmed with S. Aubin's behaviour and carriage, and hearty sorry to see him so little concerned for his daughter. The Italian frequented the house under pretence of seeing S. Aubin. Mariana's Father taking him to be a discreet man and one that had an interest in S. Aubin, whom he visited so often, took an occasion to tell him how much his family was engaged to S. Aubin, and that he designed to have him his son in law, though he seemed not very fond of the alliance. The Captain glad of this confidence resolved to make good use of it, he presently fell to giving him Counsel, and offered to speak of the business to the Frenchman, which the Father accepted of with a great deal of pleasure. The Italian being now become mediator in the affair consulted Mariana what answer he should return her Father from S. Aubin, and amused the good man with delays and putoffs to gain time for a favourable occasion, for Mariana to declare to her Parents the necessity she was under of being married to the Captain. Lovers once Fortunate flatter themselves with hopes they shall continue so still: But a Cruel accident, which is so troublesome to Married Women, so terrible to maids, and sometimes fatal to widows, was like to have broken all the measures these Lovers had taken. Mariana found herself troubled with qualms, and with fits occasioned by the familiarities of the Italian, so that she thought it high time to make her Parents acquainted with it: and believing her mother more tender and compassionate (in such cases especially) she confessed ingenuously the condition she was in, and was so far from complaining of him who had caused it that she extolled his merit in very passionate terms; praying her to keep the business private, her Lover who had promised her marriage, having important reasons to conceal it for some time. The Mother thinking she spoke of S. Aubin, was so far from blaming her daughter that she excused the matter, and promised to speak it to her Father, that order might be taken to have them privately married. The honest Fleming was so glad of the news of a marriage he so passionately wished for; that he presently sent for a notary to draw the Marriage-setlement, wherein he gave his Daughter very great advantages in favour of her pretended Husband that was to be: The two Lovers had signed, and the Father had the pen in hand for the same purpose, but missing S. Aubins name in the contract; he told the Notary he had observed on the like occasions that the parties to be married first writ their names, and others afterwards to make good the contract as Parents or Relations, or to render it authentic as witnesses: Having so said he gave the Notary the Pen, which put Mariana into a terrible fright, and all the wit the Italian had taught her was little enough to help her out: she told her Father S. Aubin was the name of a place, but that the Name he found in the instrument was that of his Family. This convinced the Father that he took the pen again and signed the deed. Being one of the most considerable Burgesses of the town, and willing to pay a respect to the Governor, he prayed the Captain who stood by, and past for S. Aubins good friend to accompany the Notary to Count magalotts, and desire his leave for the Marriage: The Governor having been possessed of the thing by the Captain, and glad an officer of merit had found an occasion to make his fortune, readily gave his consent, and agreed the Ceremony should be performed that evening in his Chapel. Mariana had the wit to order her business so well, that her Parents went not to the Chapel, but relied on an Aunt of hers she had gained: This was done with such speed, that S. Aubin was marrieed in the imaginations of Mariana's Parents before ever he heard of it. The Mother gave so strict a charge to all her family, to keep the matter private, that every one thought himself sole confident of the intrigue: while the Ceremonies were a doing, S. Aubin withdrew to his ordinary retirement. A maid who opened him the door, desirous to insinuate herself into his favour, whom she looked upon as her new Master, wished him joy: The Father seeing him enter, and thinking that out of respect to him he was loath to appear to him, till he had repaired his Daughter's honour, embraced him with great transports of Joy. Mariana's mother having spied her imaginary son-in-Law, would not give her Husband time to speak, but took him about the neck, calling him her dear Son. S. Aubin who understood not the meaning of their troublesome caresses, thought them mad. As he was going to answer their impertinent discourse, a friend of the family who alone was made privy to the business prevented him by giving him Joy: never was man more perplexed than S. Aubin. He prayed them seriously to be undeceived one for all, since for very substantial reasons it was not in his power to marry their daughter. The Mother angry at so unexpected a declaration, replied that since those reasons had not been strong enough to keep him from dishonouring her Daughter, they were too weak to dispense with his marrying her; adding, if he did it not, she would punish their infamy by strangling them both with her own hands: The quarrel increased, and S. Aubin was in danger of being ill used had not the Governor come in with the new-marryed couple. This looks so like the last scene of a Comedy that the Reader will scarce believe it. But I pretend not authority over men's opinions, I allow every one Liberty to think what he pleases. My Memoires tell me Mariana fell at her parents feet and presented them her Husband, whom they were obliged to receive, the marriage having been celebrated with all the formality usual, and Mariana in a very hopeful condition to make them Grandsires in a short time. At last they were all satisfied, the Italian that he had got a good fortune, Mariana, that she was Married to whom she loved; and S. Aubin, that he was delivered from her Parents persecutions.  
But the mind of Man is never content, and the Italian, (like others ingenious in tormenting themselves) though he saw himself Master, by his Marriage, of a considerable Fortune, and far beyond his hopes; comparing the plentifulness of his present Fortune, with those former wants all his Industry was scarce able to preserve him from, he had a Crotchet in his Pate; there was something more than ordinary in the matter, that a Gentleman of Bergamo, no otherwise considerable than for a Company of Foot which he had gained by the ordinary means, should Marry a rich Heiress, unless there were some secret reasons for it. In a word, his good Fortune had so refined his Fancy, that he passed the same judgement of his Wife most Men do, whose Wives suffer them beforehand to know what they should have been ignorant of till after the Wedding, and imagined Mariana had been as kind to some other as to him. Of all he could think of, S. Aubin appeared the most likely to be the Man: Having considered it well, he applauded himself secretly for his penetration, and was confirmed in his opinion that he had but S. Aubin's leave, and was beholding for his settlement to Mariana's being with Child; who, not daring to let her Parents know it, resolved to be Married to him, when S. Aubin had refused her: He doubted not but they had long held Correspondence, and continued it; and loath to be any longer their Cully, resolved to observe their motions. S. Aubin who had formerly avoided being alone with Mariana, that she might not have occasion to think he loved her, was often in her company after she was Married; the reason for absenting himself being now over, and her Conversation more witty than formerly, so that having reasonable good Company at home, he thought he might well save himself the trouble of seeking it abroad. S. Aubin's Assiduities with Mariana, gave the Captain new umbrage: He durst not yet complain of it to Mariana, or forbidden her his company: his Jealousy the while represented the most innocent Actions as criminal. He was the more troubled to see most of the French Gentry in Flanders going for Paris, when S. Aubin, who probably had no great business at Valenciennes, said not a word of returning for France, for which he could not imagine any cause, but a Correspondence with his Wife: He watched them so narrowly, that he quickly perceived S. Aubin often employed the Ligeois into the Country, and at his return quitted all business to speak with him. The Captain's suspicions made him fearful of every Shadow: He was very desirous to know what business the Ligeois was sent about, and gave order to an Italian Footboy, a very trusty Fellow, to hid himself in S. Aubin's Chamber, and hearken diligently what the Ligeois said. The Footboy did as he was Commanded, and reported to his Master that the Ligeois said not a word, but gave S. Aubin a Letter which he read very attentively, and sighed often in reading it. The Captain, well acquainted with Love-tricks, was so possessed with Jealousy, that he presently fancied the Letters were his Wife's, who perhaps had some Confident in the Town who conveyed them to the Ligeois. This suspicion, how ill-grounded soever, gave our Italian no small disturbance. He resolved to find out the bottom of the business; and, with the help of the Footboy, found the means one day to draw the Ligeois into a Chamber of the House, somewhat remote from S. Aubin's, or any other Lodging-room: Having locked him up there, he threatened to run him presently through, if he would not tell him truly whence the Letters came he carried S. Aubin so often: The Ligeois not knowing what Relation S. Aubin had to the Marquis, but judging by the good usage of the one, and liberality of the other, that the business was of Moment, was very loath to answer him; understanding how dangerous a matter it is to hold Correspondence with an Enemy, especially in a place of War. The trouble the Ligeois appeared in heightened the Italian's Curiosity, that he repeated his threats, and put himself in a posture to execute them. The Ligeois affrighted at it, promised to tell him all if he would but save his life: The Italian promised it, and the Wretch made him acquainted with the Correspondence between S. Aubin and the Marquis D' Osseyra. The Captain surprised at the news, made no doubt but they held intelligence against the State, and was glad at heart for so favourable an occasion to be revenged of S. Aubin, under a pretence of zeal for the King's service. The smallest things are of consequence in matters of this nature, so that notwithstanding his promise to the contrary, he made no scruple of securing the Ligeois, the Maxims of Italy having taught him he was not obliged to be a slave to his word: He advertised the Governor; who, having questioned the Ligeois, sent an Officer, with fifty Soldiers, to arrest S. Aubin, who had received notice the Ligeois was a Prisoner; and though he knew not the reason, yet he apprehended he might have let fall something in discourse about the Letters he brought him: and that they might not be seen, he burned them; but it went so much against the grain, and he did it so slowly, that he was busy about this cruel Sacrifice, when the Officer sent to take him entered his Chamber, and after a sorry Compliment or two led him into Prison. The Officer failed not to give the Governor an account what he found in S. Aubin's Chamber, and what a sight of Letters there was in the Fire. This last Circumstance made every one think him Criminal, and that he had burnt the Letters to prevent their being made use of as evidence against him. This business made a great noise, and, as 'tis usual on such occasions for every one to add something to the Report, this raised the news that passed then currant, of a great Plot discovered at Valenciennes. The Ligeois was examined very strictly, and so frighted with the tortures they threatened to put him to, that he confessed all he knew, and a great deal more: His frequent Journeys to the Spanish Army, the Money received from a General of the Enemies, and the burning of the Letters were evidences so clear, in the opinion of the Public, that no doubt was made both the Wretches would shortly suffer. S. Aubin's good Mien, and Curiosity, gained him Compassion from all that saw him: Every one pitied, but none durst excuse him, for fear of being brought in as accessary to so ticklish a Crime. He was the while under extreme perplexity in Prison, every thing seemed to fall out cross: His stay at Valenciennes was looked upon as mysterious, especially after he had declared he had no design to Marry Mariana. It was hard to justify himself without confessing his Sex, which he could scarce find in his heart to do. Being examined, he defended himself with saying he had written to the Marquis D' Osseyra as his particular Friend; but that his Letters had nothing in them that related to the King, or the State. The Judges were not satisfied with his answer, and perhaps would have condemned him, had not the Governor interposed his Authority, at the request of some Ladies, to have the judgement suspended till he might receive orders from the Court.  
As they seized what was in S. Aubin's Chamber, an Officer belonging to the Governor had the Curiosity to read some Books found there. Among the rest he read the Heroine Musqueteer, where he saw the names of the Marquis D' Osseyra and S. Aubin so often repeated, that he fancied S. Aubin the Prisoner might be the same with S. Aubin Christina. He told the Governor, and showed him the Book. The Governor read it with pleasure; and having, amongst S. Aubin's things, found a very tender Letter of the Marquis D' Osseyra's, perhaps the only one had escaped the Fire, he was fully persuaded S. Aubin was the Heroine Musqueteer, but was willing to be further assured of it. He sent for the Prisoner, showed him the Letter, and told him he doubted not but that which appeared only a Letter of kindness, was a cipher to cover some matter of State. S. Aubin showed him so many reasons to the contrary, that the Governor believed him incapable of holding intelligence against his allegiance; but demanded of him a Letter to the Marquis D' Osseyra, to forbid further Correspondence. This Proposal put S. Aubin to the groan; and not able to give a good reason for refusing to write so, he appeared so disordered, that he thought it might be justly taken for a clear conviction of his Crime, yet this trouble justified him more than all his Eloquence: For the Governor imputing it to his love, discovered him to be Christian, and no longer criminal. The business was hushed up, and S. Aubin set at liberty. The whole Town was glad of it, and especially Mariana's Parents, who still had kindness for him, and had been afraid to lose him, the Italian had taken such care to inform them daily of some new Circumstance of his Crime.  
While S. Aubin was in Prison, the Captain, who made account to have his revenge of S. Aubin in the punishment the State would inflict on him, could not forbear telling his wife something of it, and at the same time reproaching her with her falseness. A reproach a Woman truly virtuous is most sensible of: And the Husband who uses such language to his Wife, doth but raise in her a desire to be revenged of an unjust suspicion by real disloyalty, when she sees him make so slght account of the reservation she values herself upon: Mariana, who no otherwise knew of any disloyalty but by her Husband's discourse, and could reproach herself for nothing but having been too credulous, was so touched to the quick with her Husband's ingratitude, that she resolved to punish him for his Jealousy; it was long ere her resentment mastered her virtue, being unresolved whom to make choice of to assist her in her revenge: But when S. Aubin was set at liberty, she fixed her choice on him; and loooking on him as an Instrument very fit for her turn, she used him more obligingly than usual: Every day she resolved to make him acquainted with her design, but when they were together she had not the power to do it, flattering herself perhaps he would guests at it. After vain expectation he would save her the confusion a compliment of that nature would put her in, she acquainted him at length with the injustice of her Husband, but had not the power to say all she intended, shame stopped her mouth; and S. Aubin contented himself with blaming the Italian, without making any offer of his service to flatter her hopes.  
Mariana not discouraged at this, added, a man of his humour deserved to have a wife that would be revenged of him. S. Aubin replied coldly, it was an honest woman's part to think more of her duty to herself than her Husband. This would be sufficient to keep her from any act of disloyalty, and for his part he little valued a woman who was reserved on no other account but that of her Husband. Mariana who expected S. Aubin would have offered to go halves in the revenge she designed, was extremely surprised to hear him preach honesty to her. And not able to endure longer the vexation it gave her, retired into her Chamber, to weep it out there.  
'Tis natural to desire what appears difficult to obtain. S. Aubins resistance heightened Mariana's passion: to justify the discretion of her Lover; she fancied he answered her thus, only to please her, who he knew was no Lover of very free discourse: I should have explained myself better, says she, how else should a man I have always used hardly perceive a sudden change so much to his advantage. With that she resolved to speak more plainly, having observed her time to make a new trial, she told him she had reflected on what he had said to her of honest women's duty to themselves, but found those reasons too weak to resist the motions of a predominant passion. I cannot endure my Husband, and the desire I have to be revenged of a man who makes so ill acknowledgement of what I have done for him, makes me forget all I would have regarded on another occasion: And since I am extremely concerned to make choice of a discreet man, I have pitched upon you: she stopped there, thinking she had said enough: S. Aubin, who at first understood not what revenge she intended, thought she would have made away her Husband, and abhorring so violent a design, blamed her extremely, telling her, a Wife must bear much with her Husband, that the happiest marriages are attended with trouble; and that if all Wives who are not satisfied with their Husbands should take such violent resolutions, no man would dare marry; adding, he would willingly adventure his life against any one had offended her, but that he thought it not the part of a wise wan to meddle between Husband and wife. And leaving Mariana (in the dissorder you may imagine) he thought fit to acquaint her Parents with the passages, and to take measures with them to prevent further inconvenience; but he had the discretion to tell them no more than that they would do well to prevent dissorders mightarise out of some small difference between the Italian and his wife, for he perceived they were both too much disposed to quarrel: S. Aubin at their request took it upon him to speak to the Captain, and advised them the mean time to calm Mariana; he found out the Italian, and having told him he had something of consequence to acquaint him with, he made him a long discourse of the extravagant humours of most women, and the unhappiness of Husbands, who have not the art of complying with their weaknesses, insinuating it was a wise man's part to prevent noise, and cover handsomely the extravagances of an humoursome woman; the Italian not knowing what the discourse tended to; took it worse from S. Aubin than he would from any man, fancying he intended to insult over him, by reproaching him with the easiness of his wife. Being a man of courage he had not the patience to endure the affront, but laid his hand on his Sword, without giving S. Aubin time to finish the discourse, S. Aubin stood upon his guard, and defended himself, but they were parted without advantage on either side.  
Mariana's Parents tired themselves with preaching to her to live in peace with her Husband, when a Servant brings them news of a duel between S. Aubin and the Italian, which surprised them all, though on different accounts: The Father-in-law believed his Son had ill taken the good offices S. Aubin would have done him, and so occasioned the quarrel: Mariana applying all to her love, fancied S. Aubin had a generosity refined to that extremity that he pretended himself unconcerned for her that he might be in in a condition the better to vindicate her. But the revenge she expected was of another nature, such as she intended to share in the pleasure of it with him who took it. The Captain arriving, complained to Mariana's Father of the injury he pretended done him by S. Aubin, and told him he would no longer endure the insolence of that Frenchman, who abused the respect they had for him. The Father heard his complaints with attention, and was surprised at the news of an intrigue between his Daughter and S. Aubin, which might be likely enough: The Governor being told of the quarrel, sent for the Captain, who confidently told him the reasons he had to draw upon S. Aubin. The Governor not able to forbear Laughing at a jealousy so ill grounded, brought the Captain to himself, by telling him S. Aubin was a woman.  
S. Aubin perceiving the secret he was so careful to conceal, was grown puplick, left Valenciennes, and went to Mons, being about five Leagues off, giving out he was an English Gentleman, related to the house of Crovy: The Duke of Arschot who was Covernour received him very kindly: and as distrustful as he was of strangers in a Garrison of that importance, he could not believe a young Gentleman of so good a mien capable of any ill design. A Walloon Colonel, who had served in England, was very civil to him; and the morrow after his arrival invited him to supper. S. Aubin was no sooner come into the Colonels house, but he saluted his wife, she was a Lady too well qualified to be capable of ingratitude, and having been with her Husband at Cambray when it was taken, she presently knew S. Aubin to be the Marshal Luxembourgs Aid de Camp, who had complemented the Ladies there from his General; she was extremely glad to see him, and to have that occasion to express her acknowledgement of his civilities: She fancied her Husband, to please her with the surprise, had brought him in as an Englishman; and she, to be even with her Husband, asked S. Aubin (as if she had not known him) what News from England. S. Aubin, not perceiving himself discovered, answered very naturally, and like a Man of that Country, affecting to speak broken French, and giving so exact an account of Affairs, that the colonel's Wife thought herself mistaken, in taking him to be S. Aubin: She excused herself for it, and her Husband made her mistake the Subject of his Raillery all Suppertime. S. Aubin having dextrously escaped discovery here, resolved not to appear before the Duchess of Arschot, knowing she had great Relations at Brussels, and would not fail to let her Friends know of it. He gave the Marquis D' Osseyra notice of his being at Man's by this Letter.  
The difficulties I found in receiving news of you, and giving you an account of myself, made me resolve to come hither. Your Campaign is at an end, and I am in a Town you have no suspicion of: Consult your love, and tell me what I shall do to keep within the Rules of Decency. I will wait your answer before I appear at the Duchess of Arschots, that I may not expose myself to the noise may be thereby occasioned; And you shall find, under the Name of S. Aubin,  
Your Christina.  
S. Aubin having sent this Letter to Brussels, by a trusty Messenger, resolved to wait an answer in his Chamber, but was deceived: For the colonel's Wife having visited the Duchess of Arschot, for want of other discourse, told her of the English Gentleman, who had supped the Night before at her House, and how she mistook him for a French Gentleman she had seen at Cambray: Having added a great deal about his Wit and good Mien, she raised in the Duchess a desire to see him. The Colonel undertook to bring him to her, found him in his Chamber, and having magnified the good service his Wife had done, in giving the Duchess a Character of his good qualities, he offered to bring him to the Duchess. S. Aubin, vexed at his officiousness, excused himself with saying his Head ached. The Colonel, who expected not a refusal, and had engaged to bring him, pressed him to go along, assuring him he should not stay a Moment. S. Aubin was perplexed, being loath to see the Duchess before he had an answer to his Letter, and not well able to get rid of the colonel's importunity, he prayed him to allow him a little time of rest, and he would go with him in the Evening. The Colonel went away well satisfied with the promise, and S. Aubin continued unresolved what to do. Having thought well of the matter, and knowing the Duchess a generous Person, he chose rather to see her privately, and be known to her; than expose himself publicly to the surprise his disguise might occasion. He left his Chamber before the Colonel returned, and being got to the Duchess', sent her word there was a Stranger had business of consequence with her, and desired private Audience: The Duchess went presently into another Room, where S. Aubin was soon after admitted. As soon as S. Aubin appeared, the Duchess at first sight knew who it was; and without allowing her time to speak, kindly embraced her, expressing much joy to see her. S. Aubin gave her a brief account of Affairs, and the design brought him thither; and thinking it better to appear to the Marquis D' Osseyra in Maid's Habit, prayed the Duchess admittance once more into her Family; which the Duchess readily granted. All things agreed on, the Gentleman made as if he withdrew; and presently after returned by another Door the Duchess ordered to be opened on purpose. S. Aubin had provided a Suit of Woman's  at Paris, and having quickly shifted the Habit and Name of S. Aubin, into that of Christina, the Duchess produced her as a Gentlewoman of Lille, who was come to spend some time with her. It is the Prerogative of Great ones to be believed without examination of Particulars by Inferiors; and Christina was taken by all, for what the Duchess declared her to be. The Duke of Arschot was the first deceived: The Colonel in the mean time was returned to S. Aubin's Lodging, where he was told the Gentleman was gone. Reflecting then on what had passed at Table, he made no doubt but the pretended Englishman was the Frenchman his Wife had seen at Cambray. He was sorry he had been so credulous, and resolved not to appear at the governor's, for fear of being asked news of the Stranger. The Duchess, willing to divert herself with the Adventure, sent for the Colonel and told him, that being his Friend, she took that occasion to let him know the Duke was much surprised to hear he held Correspondence with the Enemy, and had entertained at his House, at Supper the last Night, a French Spy, though his Wife knew him to be an Aid de Camp of the Duke of Luxemburg's. The good Colonel, astonished at the discourse, prayed the Duchess to continue his Protectoress; assuring her, by all that's sacred, he was innocent, and had taken that young Gentleman to be an English man. The Duchess, pretending herself satisfied, promised to clear him.  
The Duchess of Arschot, fearing to draw trouble on herself, writ to one of her Friends at Brussels, desiring advice how to govern herself, as to Christina; and whether the Spaniards would not take it ill she entertained a French-woman. The Duchess de Villa Hermosa saw the Letter, and she told her Husband of it. The Marquis D' Osseyra was in the mean time gone to Mons, in search of S. Aubin; but could have no account what was become of him. The Colonel informed of the Marquess' arrival, waited on him to tender his service; but finding him troubled S. Aubin was gone, he thought they had discovered some Plot, and made haste away for fear of being apprehended as having had a hand in it. The Marquis could not, with decency, be long at Mons without visiting the Duke and Duchess of Arschot: He went to their House, and was received with all the respect due to his Birth and Merit. The Duchess, who guessed the cause of his coming, perceiving, by the distraction appearing in his Countenance, the trouble he was in, told him they had that day surprised a French Spy, drawing a Map of the Town; and that she had much ado to prevail with her Husband not to cause him to be hanged up immediately. The Marquis full of fear for S. Aubin, asked her, with much trouble, what was become of the Criminal. You may question him if you please, says the Duchess, for he is yet in my Chamber; and I am sure you will be for giving him his Life: Having passed into another Apartment, There is the Criminal, says the Duchess, showing him Christina. The Reader may well think they embraced one another  she could make an end of her Compliment. Christina charming as she was, appeared much more so to the Marquis. They were both so well satisfied at the sight of each other, after so many cross Accidents, that they continued some time looking one upon another, not able to speak a word to express their joy. They failed not afterwards to say all the kind things two Lovers are capable of on such an occasion. The Marquis thanked the Duchess for the pleasant Cheat put upon him, and confessed he was come with a design to Marry his dear Mistress, and prayed her the Ceremony of it might be performed at her House. The Duchess, not expecting so sudden a Resolution, could not handsomely refuse him; but desired time to think on't, and to receive an Answer from Brussels; adding, he would do well to send a Courier to the Bishop for a Licence. Christina saying she thought that very necessary, and desired it might be so; the Marquis sent away a Gentleman express to the Bishop, and charged him to dispatch that Affair with all expedition. The two Lovers, with a pleasing impatience, expected the return of the Courier, and rejoiced the while to see their Constancy so near being Crowned with mutual Enjoyment. The Marquis was persuaded Christina's thoughts were altogether Heroic, that she loved none beside him, and was above the weaknesses commonly incident to those of her Sex. How odd soever it might appear, that a Man of his Quality should Marry a Maid that had run through so many different Adventures, his love, and the knowledge he had of the Virtues of his Mistress, prevailed with him above all other considerations. Christina, who had not on any other occasion been sensible of Love, but yielded herself to the sole merit and perseverance of the Marquis, was extreme glad to see her troubles so near an end, and herself upon the point of being united to the only Man of the World, who had the secret to please her, and she thought worthy of her affections: But this Joy was short-lived, and the satisfaction they had to be together some hours, seemed granted them only to heighten the grief that was quickly to succeed upon their absence from each other, with small hopes of ever seeing one another again.  
The Duchess of Benavidez, who, after the taking of Cambray, was returned into Spain, and could not pardon the Marquis D' Osseyra his insensibility, had informed his Mother of the Passion he had for Christina, and had given her so ill-favoured a Description of that poor Maid's Disguises and Adventures, that the Mother was persuaded her Son was bewitched: And attributing his Passion to something supernatural, she prayed Don John of Austria (who had a respect for her, having long known her at Arragon,) to obtain an Order from the King, to the Governor of the Low-Countries, to obstruct the Marriage of the Marquis with Christina; and (if need were) to interpose the King's Authority to prevent it. The Order was sent into Flanders, as strict as the Marchioness could wish it, and the Duke de Villa Hermosa, very zealous for the service of his Prince, and desirous to demonstrate an exact Conformity to the Orders of the Court, and repair, by performing what was in his power, the misfortune he had to lose many places it was not in his power to defend better than he had done; being advertized, by the Duchess of Arschot's Letter, of Christina's arrival at Mons, presently sent thither the Captain of his Guards, with the King's Order addressed to the Duke of Arschot, declaring he must be answerable to the King to have Christina forthcoming. And being told the Marquis D' Osseyra was gone from Brussels, he presently thought him gone for Mons; which obliged him to dispatch a Courier thither, to tell the Marquis he must presently attend him. The Courier arrived as soon as the King's Order; and the Marquis (from whom the Duke concealed the Order he received) believed the French intended to attack Brussels; and went away in all haste, having taken leave of Christina, and recommended her earnestly to the Duchess. When the Marquis came to Brussels, he was extremely surprised when the Governor showed him the Order from Spain, and prayed him not to stir out of Town; for if he did, he must interpose his Authority to hinder him. The Marquis was upon the point of returning for Mons in spite of the governor's orders, when a Letter was brought him from the Duchess of Arschot, acquainting him she was much troubled a Higher Power had put it out of hers to express her respects for him in the Person of his Mistress, who was now in a Covent, where she should be used very civilly; but was not to be spoke with by any but the Abbess of the place, the Order from Spain being positive in that Particular. This was a deadly blow to a Man in Love, as the Marquis; but it must be born with, and he must be content to write into Spain to endeavour to obtain a Revocation of the Order. Several Persons of the highest Quality writ in favour of Christina, giving her the Character of an extraordinary Person; and that her Virtue, and excellent Qualities, deserved to be used with particular respect. The good Offices intended the Marquis by Letters so much to the advantage of his Mistress, had an effect quite contrary to his Friend's expectation. The King of Spain having been told of her, and scarce believing what was reported of her, expressed a great desire to see so rare a Person: And having asked if it were not possible to have her brought into Spain, Don John of Austria promised she should. It being Don John's Custom to make the King acquainted with the greatest Affairs of Europe, by way of Divertisement; as in the beginning of his Ministry he made him desirous to learn to write, by showing him a Letter from the Duke of Savoy, all of the Handwriting of that young Prince; and assuring his Majesty he might, if he pleased, do as much in three Months. The King thought well of it, and learned to write. Order was sent to the Governor of the Low-Countries, to Embark Christina to be conveyed into Spain: the Duke de Villa Hermosa, willing to save the Marquis D' Osseyra the trouble the removing his Mistress to such a distance might occasion him, kept this Order very private. When Christina was told she must go a Shipboard, she was at Death's-door; especially when she heard she was to go into Spain and the Marquis to stay in Elanders, with so little hopes of ever seeing her more. These Reflections made her forgot she had ever been S. Aubin, and yield herself wholly to the Sentiments of Christina; her love drawing Tears from her in abundance, which the fear of Death was never able to force from her. She took Shipping at Ostend, in a Vessel fitted, and armed, on purpose to convey her for Spain. She was recommended with so much care to the Officers of the Ship, that they thought her a Princess of some Sovereign Family, which the Spaniards had stolen away for reasons of State. The Gentry of that Nation are great adorers of Women, and those in the Ship used her with that respect that helped her to bear her misfortunes more patiently, a Woman, what condition soever she is in, being still sensible of the deference expressed for her. An Officer in the Ship (whether Lieutenant, or Ensign, I know not) possessed with an opinion of Christina's Highness, and having perhaps read in Don Quixot, that the first duty of a Cavalier is to secure Ladies in distress, observing Christina one day all bloated with crying, watched an opportunity to speak to her in private, and told her if she was so averse against going to Spain, as her tears and her sighs gave him cause to believe, she might signify her pleasure to him, who would bring her where she desired, or set fire of the Ship. Christina, well acquainted with the extravagance of the Spaniards, in what concerns Ladies, doubted not but he spoke in good earnest; but looking on his Proposal as impracticable, she thanked him, pretending she would not consent to it, for fear of exposing a Gentleman of so much bravery to so certain danger. Who ever knows the humour of the Spaniards will easily believe such an answer, from a fair Lady, was more than sufficient to oblige this Officer to undertake impossibilities for her sake: He conjured her to employ him in her service, assuring her he would endeavour to answer the good opinion she had of his worth. Christina, unwilling to act any thing rashly, advised him to consider a little of the matter; and because they could not, without suspicion, discourse long together, she prayed him to put in writing the means he thought proper to bring about his design by: The Officer promised it, and withdrew to perform it. As he was drawing up his Memorial two Vessels of Tripoli attacked the Spanish Ship: I will not trouble the Reader with a tedious Relation of the Sea-fight, but acquaint him only that Christina, choosing rather to go into Spain, where she might hope to see the Marquis D'Osseyra once more, than to fall into the Turks hands, did extraordinary Actions in the Fight; and having observed a Soldier who scarce knew how to handle his Arms, took them out of his hands, and made so good use of them, that she contributed very much to the shameful Retreat the Turks were forced to make.  
When all was quiet again in the Ship, the Captain and Officers, who all their life had been under the vulgar error, that a Woman is incapable of Actions of Valour, were astonished at Christina's dexterity and courage. They Complemented her for it, but having not in their Language Terms sufficiently expressive of their admiration, they expressed it by looking on her without speaking a word. The Spaniards are great Bouncers, much given to Hyperboles, one called her the Queen of Amazons, another said she was an Angel descended from Heaven for their aid. They were so well satisfied with the Miracles she had done (for so they called them) that had she taken her advantage of the favourable disposition they were then in, she might have easily persuaded them to land her in France: But she had a very stayed wit, not apt to be led with fancies, so that she never thought of it. In the mean time the Officer who had offered her his service, being confirmed in the fancy he had of her high Birth, by the Actions he had lately seen, took a new resolution to set her at liberty; and blindly, following his fancy, drew up an extravagant Project, suitable to the Capacity of a Man bred very meanly. It was divided into Articles too ridiculous to be inserted. The substance was,  
That he would steal Christina, by killing the Centinel at her  Door; and because this could not be done without noise, he pretended he had provided against it by a hole he had made in the Magazine of Powder, at which he would discharge a small Gun, set fire of the Powder-Room, and blow up the Vessel, as soon as they were got away, to a convenient distance, in the Longboat. The only Reward he desired for this brave Action, was to be sent to London with the Character of Ambassador from the Princess, to desire his Majesty of England's Protection. He was so pleased with the fancy of his Project, that one day he told Christina she would without fail be at liberty in few days, all things being near ready, and presented her the Paper; Read it, says he, and you will find I have taken my Measures very right. Christina, who had already no great opinion of his wit, received his Memorial, imagining he might write with more judgement than he spoke. The extravagances of the Spaniard would at another time have made her excellent sport: But now she pitied his folly; telling him, coldly, her mind was altered, and that she was very desirous to see the Court of Spain. Any Man, but a Spaniard, would have been offended at the slight; but what ever happens a Spaniard finds Fuel in it to feed the Fire of his Vanity: He replied she could not do better than go see the Grandeur of the Spanish Court, which, in his opinion, was the most Majestic of the Universe.  
The Ship this while drew near the Coast of Spain, and Christina, not forgetting she was still further and further from the Marquis D' Osseyra, afflicted herself every day so much the more. As soon as they landed, the Master of the Vessel took Post to carry the Duke de Villa Hermosa's dispatches to Court. When he arrived there, they asked him a hundred several Questions about Christina. He spoke much in commendation of her beauty, but when he came to the Particulars of the Engagement with the Vessels of Tripoli, he extolled to the Skies, the valour and courage of our Heroine. This appeared so strange, in a Country where Women spend their time in an excessive softness, and are generally fearful, that all who heard the News, spoke of Christina with great admiration. He who first gave the King an account of her, and occasioned his desire to see her, failed not to acquaint him with what the Captain said of her: The King was willing to hear the Captain himself, and sent for him. The King's presence, and the desire to please him, inspired Eloquence into the Captain, who gave his Majesty an account of the Fight, and particularly of what Christina had done; which he displayed with such advantage, it heightened the King's desire to see her. A Coach of the King's was immediately sent away, to bring her with more convenience, and expedition to Court; where, by the diligence of the Person employed to attend her, Christina arrived in very few days.  
The end of the Third Part.   

THE Heroine Musqueteer: OR, THE FEMALE WARRIOR.  
The fourth and last Part.  
CHRISTINA being arrived at Madrid, was much troubled to find every one there so earnestly desirous to see her: The Countess of Benavidez had given so strange an account of her, and the Captain of the Vessel, in which she was transported into Spain, was so careful in publishing her Action against the Corsaires, (to which the People added so many fabulous Circumstances) that her valour was generally attributed to a supernatural principle. Some confidently affirmed she was a Witch; but this ridiculous report vanished as soon as she appeared at Court, where she answered exactly all the Questions Don John of Austria asked her in the King's presence. She had the good Fortune to see whatever she spoke was pleasing and well taken; to which her Modesty, good Mien, and speaking Spanish so well, did very much contribute: The Court was well satisfied with her discourse, and the Prince Don John of Austria assured her she should be well used, and treated with respect: When she was retired, the King, and the Prince his Brother, spoke much to her advantage: The Courtiers, as well out of a natural inclination the Spaniards have to speak always in favour of Ladies, as of custom to approve whatever the King likes, highly applauded his Majesty's sentiments. They made particular Observations and Remarks on all that appeared charming in Christina, and discovered such excellency of wit in expressions dropped casually from her, that the King was persuaded they had done her wrong who had censured her conduct; and of all those Gentlemen who waited on his Majesty, there was not one but could have wished himself the place of the Marquis d' Osseyra in her favour: Don John gave order she should have Lodging and Diet at the King's charge: These distinguishing favours, and the obliging character given her by those who knew her, made several Ladies, of the highest Quality, very desirous to see her. 'Tis not to be expected they should have, for one of their Sex, the complaisance of Gentlemen, who, taken at first sight with the splendour of a beautiful Lady, observe not her defects, or at least pass over and excuse them: Women, on the contrary, overlook, or (at best) take very slight notice of any thing that appears pleasing and agreeable in another, and apply themselves with diligence to magnify and blazon all her imperfections, and whatever they believe displeasing or unhandsome. As soon as the Ladies had seen Christina, they blamed their weak judgements who had cried up her beauty, and endeavoured to make them sensible of several defects in it, though all the World is not yet of these Lady's Opinion in the case: The Countess de Benavidez perceiving the presence of Christina, would deface the ill impressions she had given of her, endeavoured to prepossess the Courtiers to her disadvantage: But being frustrated on that side, and looking on the Ladies as better disposed to serve her design, who are usually pleased to hear any thing to the prejudice of one of their Sex, who has gained the reputation of eminent; she spoke of Christina with that scorn and contempt, that several of the Ladies were unwilling to appear in the same Room with her. Notwithstanding the diligence of the Countess, and the discourse of the Ladies of her Cabal, the young Gentlemen of the Court liked Christina very well: But the Count Talara, first Gentleman of his Catholic Majesties Bedchamber, no longer able to stifle the Flame kindled in his affections, frequented her company, and omitted nothing to make her sensible he was in love with her. Christina, perceiving it, did all that could be expected from a virtuous Lady to disabuse him, and used all the Discourses and Arguments, a Woman, who would discourage a Lover and had no desire to be loved, could invent on that occasion: The Count de Talara, not discouraged by her severities, continued to love and wait upon her wherever she was to be seen, being not of the opinion of that experienced Lover, who said it was in a Woman's power to deter any from loving her, by a cold entertainment, and at two or three several times telling them dryly she was not pleased with the address. Christina having followed this maxim, and several others for curing the Count, thought it in vain to discourage him any more, but resolved (without giving herself the trouble of undeceiving him further) so to order her actions, and shape the conduct of her life, as not to give him cause of the least hope of success: The Count attributing Christina's slights to some particular a version he apprehended she might have against him, fancied she was otherwise inclined, and being a Person inferior to none, in handsomeness, quality, or wit, was troubled extremely with this imagination: To satisfy himself in this particular, he made some Persons, who now and then visited Christina, acquainted with his passion, and prayed them not to see her any more. The Gentlemen of Spain have that deference and respect one for another, that a request of this kind is not extraordinary there: Christina very carefully avoided all occasions of being alone with the Count, and went frequently to Court to entertain his Majesty with an account of passages in Flanders. And having one day expressed a great desire to see the Escurial, to know whether that famous House answered the reputation it had in Europe; the King was glad there was any thing in Spain could move the curiosity of a Person who had seen so many varieties, and prayed two Ladies of the Court to bear her company thither, to show her the magnificence of that Palace, and the rare devises in several Apartments there, which Philip the second put so great a value upon: Order was given the Ladies should be sumptuously treated there: Count Talara, having heard of it, would fain have been one of the company, but was indispensably obliged by the duty of his place to attend the King's person, and as things than stood in the Court of Spain, there was no absenting himself without manifest hazard of his Fortune. As he was thinking of a Person he might confide in, to speak in his favour to Christina on this occasion, news was brought him that the high Steward of the King's Household, who was his Kinsman and Friend, was newly returned from the Army in Catalonia, where he had a command; the Count gave him a visit, and having confessed he was desperately in love with an excellent strange Lady, who was to be on the morrow at the Escurial, with several other Ladies; he conjured him to make use of the Privilege of his place, in going to the entertainment, where it would be in his power to do him good offices with his Mistress, under pretence of taking care of the Ladies. A Gentleman never refuses an employment of this nature, and this Friend of the Counts, readily accepting the charge he gave him, promised to acquit himself well of it. He failed not to go the next day to the Escurial; where, having given the necessary orders, he went into a Gallery the Ladies were walking in; who, having notice of his arrival, advanced to receive him, believing he had taken this Journey merely out of respect to them: He had scarce begun to pass a Compliment of civility upon them, but having cast his Eyes on Christina, he stood still as a Statute: The Ladies were astonished, especially Christina, who fixing her Eye earnestly on him, knew him to be Don Philip de Palafox, of whom I spoke in my first Volume, as the Person who passed the Pyrences to steal her away. Christina cried out, frighted to see herself so near a Person who had been deeply in love with her, and one whom she thought she had highly offended. Don Philip had not heard of Christina since he went into the Army in Catalonia, whence he returned but once to Court, to take his Oath of High-Steward of the Household, the place being void by the death of the Marquis Darizza his Father; so that 'twas no wonder he was surprised at so unexpected a sight of a Person who had been so dear to him, and by her insensibility had made him resolve to go into the Army: Those who have had any experience in Love, will easily agree, the sight, after long absence, of a person we have tenderly loved, and never prevailed with, cannot but cause extraordinary emotions in the heart of a Lover. All Men are apt to flatter themselves in their passions, and Don Palafox, not able to imagine what strange Fortune should bring Christina (a French-woman) into Spain, when the Two Crowns were so deeply engaged in War, presently fancied she had repent her ill usage of him, and probably was returned into Spain in search of him. And continuing to interpret all things to his advantage, he thought the slights Count Talara complained of, and the loud cry her late astonishment, at first sight of him, had forced from her, effects of her passion for him. Being full of these fancies, he said a thousand extravagances; and Christina was so surprised, she answered not a word: The Ladies who stood by, taking notice of the astonishment on either side, helped to bring them to themselves again; and finding Christina much disordered by the presence of Don Philip, they prayed him to withdraw, which he could not deny them; yet hoped the disorder he saw Christina in boded him much good. He was no sooner gone, but Christina, observing that the Ladies were in pain to know the cause of her trouble, yet so discreet as to forbear ask her, acquainted them with what had passed in her Country, and whatever else had any relation to her concern with Don Philip: This lessened their wonder at her astonishment, and was easily believed by them, who were well acquainted with the headstrong humour of that Gentleman.  
Don Philip the while considered the accident he had newly met with, and being naturally vain, flattered himself with an opinion Christina was in love with him. It was a pretty while ere he came to a resolution whether to return to the Ladies, or retire to save Christina the confusion he feared his presence would put her in before the Company: After much debate it was carried for the retirement, in confidence his Mistress would thank him for his discretion, and esteem him the better for't. Count Talara impatient to hear the success of his Friend's Journey, had given order he should have notice as soon as Palafox arrived: And going to his House soon after his arrival, he asked him, with much concern, what news of his Mistress: You have a Rival, answered Don Philip, who hath long been in love with the fair French woman, and he is a Gentleman I have a great interest in, and my very good Friend. Know you not, replied the Count, thinking he meant the Marquis d' Osseyra, that the King hath explained himself in that particular, and declared, he will not consent to their Marriage: You surprise me, says Don Philip, (not comprehending the Count's meaning,) I did not think the Court so well informed of the affair. A Kinsman of Don Philip's coming in, interrupted their discourse, and prevented farther explication: The Count took his leave, and Don Pallafox remained very unquiet at the news he had newly told: Going to the King on the morrow, he found Christina there, giving his Majesty an account of every thing worthy observation at the Escurial: They asked if she thought it a better House than Versailles; there is no proportion between them, says Christina, Versailles being more considerable for the Waters, and delicate Gardens about it, than the magnificence of the Buildings, which are neat and convenient, but not stately; but the Escurial is a Palace of very large extent.  
Don Philip pretending he knew not this strange Lady, asked those who stood by who she was, while she spoke to the King: They told him what they had heard of the Marquis d' Osseyra's passion, the Fights she had been in, in Flanders, and, in a word, all those Stories the Public had added to the truth of her Adventures. The King being gone to Counsel, Christina retired, and Don Philip gave her his Hand to bring her to her Apartment, which she would not refuse him, for fear of notice being taken of it in so public a place: As soon as he came where he might speak to her in private, he assured her he had always loved her, and that if he had been guilty of disrespect in endeavouring to steal her, she ought to pardon it, as an effect of the excess of his passion, his intentions having been always very good. Christina willing to disabuse him, told him his explications were to no purpose, since she had disposed of her Heart to another, and waited only a favourable opportunity to complain to the King of the injustice of her Enemies, and to entreat his Majesty's protection, if she should marry the Marquis d' Osseyra; otherwise, that she might have liberty to spend her life in a Covent. With that she burst out into Tears, at the thought of the Marquis; which Don Philip seeing, (that he might not afflict her more by discourse he perceived troublesome to her) went away, but was so much concerned for her, that he made it his business to be better instructed in the particulars of her affairs.  
Having remembered himself that the Countess de Benavidez had resided long in Flanders, he gave her a visit, and falling insensibly into discourse of Christina: The Countess gave him a description of her, much like that she had formerly given the Marchioness d' Osseyra, and many others; insinuating that all her disguises were the effects of a criminal passion; which Don Philip was so far persuaded of, that he repent he had ever loved her: Most Men are disposed to believe what they hear reported of the ill conduct of Women, and the gross Error of most strangers, especially Spaniards, in the hard censures they pass of the liberty Women enjoy in France, did not a little contribute to confirm Don Philip in the sentiments the Countess had inspired him with. He thanked her for her information, and having that Evening met with Count Talara, as the King was going to Bed, he told him he would cure him of the passion he had for Christina, assuring him he knew by a very good hand, she was unworthy the affection of a Person of Honour: The King having that Instant called the Count upon business belonging to his Place, he had not the time to answer Don Philip; and presently after, every body withdrew: The Count, by his privilege of first Gentleman of the Bedchamber, was to lie there that Night: The passion he had for Christina, made him muse all Night of Don Philip's Discourse; at last, reproaching himself for having endured Language so much to the disadvantage of a Person he loved, he thought himself obliged, as a Gentleman, to demand satisfaction, and got up with a resolution to fight Don Philip, though Duels are forbidden in Spain: But the Prince dispensing very much with the severity of the Edicts, they are not observed there as exactly as in France, so that Gentlemen fight Duels there on very slight occasions. Count Talara having written a Billet to Don Philip, he delivered it to one of his Servants, a Navarrois in whom he placed great confidence, commanding him to carry it to Don Philip: Challenges being out of fashion in France, I have inserted the form of this, translated word for word, being as follows.  
Whoever dares speak to the disadvantage of Christina, lies: She is of unquestionable Virtue; and he cannot be a Man of Honour, who judges otherwise of her: If you are of a contrary Opinion, let me find you at one a Clock after Midnight, at the Toledo-Gate, where you shall receive the Punishment due for the wrong judgement you have passed of her.  
The Count recommended this Billet so often, and with so strict a charge to the Boy, that it gave him the curiosity to know what it contained. He was much surprised at the reading it, and having been born near Christina, and heard so many extraordinary things of her, he had a kind of inclination for her, and thought he might do her some service in letting her see a Billet she was so much concerned in; and slipped privately into her Lodging to show it her: Christina having given him some Fruits of her acknowledgement, charged him to carry it safe to Don Philip, and acquaint her with his answer, telling him, (the better to engage him to it) it was of very great consequence to her.  
Don Philip, having received the Billet, was extremely offended with the outrageous Language the Count had made use of, and told the Boy it required no answer, but he would give his Master an answer at the place appointed. The Navarrois gave Christina an account, and then his Master: While the Count was fitting himself to appear at the assignation, Christina was in Tears, unresolved what to do. She considered, that as things were carried, this Duel must needs produce very ill effects, since the Relations of both the Gentlemen, would infallibly join with the Marchioness d' Osseyra, to ruin her, and perhaps prevail with the Court to take some violent resolutions against her. She was sensible likewise the Marquis d' Osseyra would be extremely displeased, to hear she had been concerned in so public a manner, and in a business of such noise in the Face of all Spain: A Woman, how small soever a share she hath in a Quarrel happened on her account, being sure to suffer by it; the public (which judges of things by appearances, without examining the truth) being always ready to blame her: Having made these reflections, she resolved to prevent their fight; she had scarce formed the design, but she repent it, reproaching herself for being so little sensible of her reputation, boldly and securely wronged by Don Philip. With that she gave herself up wholly to what her Anger, her Courage, and desire of Revenge suggested to her, and with the help of a French Merchant, got her a Suit of Man's , a Sword, and a Peruke. About an hour before the time of the assignation, she cunningly gave it out, the Count Talara was to fight a Duel; without mentioning Don Philip: This was enough to alarm the Count's Friends, who arrested him in his House. Christina in the mean time went to the place of Rendezvous, and having spied Don Philip, though the Night began to grow very dark, she attacked him so briskly, that she gave Don Philip a desperate Cut, which he had certainly revenged, had he not been instantly hemmed in by five or six Men, who seized both the Combatants. Count Talara's Boy, who loved his Master well, and feared the success of the Duel, had given notice of it to a Gentleman who was both their Friends, and having got together some other, ran with them to the Gate of Toledo as they began to fight: They had put out their Flambeaus for fear of discovery, and 'twas so dark, they could not discern one Person from another, but hastily seized on them; and having put them into several Coaches, carried them to Don John's Apartment, that the Prince, who is extremely beloved by the Nobility, might take up the matter. But the Wound Don Philip had received, obliged them to take him to a Surgeons, who (perhaps to heighten the value of the Cure) presently said it was very dangerous, but that he would warrant the Cure. One of those who had parted them was already got to Don john's to advertise him of the business; and as he began to give him an account of the Particulars, he spied Count Talara standing very quiet in Don John's Chamber: He was so disordered, to see there a Man he thought he had left in his Friends hands in another place, that it was not in his Power to continue his discourse. The Prince, observing the astonishment of the Man, told him he had sent for the Count, that he might be informed of the Affair, and that he would take care there should be no Swords drawn. Don Philip is mortally wounded, says the Gentleman, and we thought it had been by Count Talara. They were all surpsized at this, especially when told, that he that wounded Don Philip was in a Coach at the Prince's Gate. As they were under the impatience to know who it was, Christina and her Company entered the Chamber. Every one wondered to see a young Man of so good a Mien. Christina addressing herself to Don John, informed him what had obliged her to disguise herself; and the course she had taken for staying the Count, that she might revenge, in Person, the injurious discourse of Don Philip: Her resolution was commended by all, and her courage admired. The Prince, to divert his Majesty with the sight of this disguise, led her into his Majesty's Chamber; telling him, as he entered, he was come to beg his Majesty's pardon to be granted that Criminal, who had wounded one of the bravest Men in his Kingdom. The King fixing his Eyes on Christina, presently knew her, and thought the discourse of the Prince, his Brother, had no relation to Christina: But when he was informed of what had happened, he blamed Don Philip extremely, for drawing that misfortune on himself, and assured Christina of his Protection. Don Philip being soon after almost cured of his wound, Don John made him and the Count embrace one another, and obliged Don Philip to ask Christina pardon. He was so ashamed to have been wounded by a Woman, that he left the Court, and accompanied his Brother into Sicily, where he was to take Possession of the Archbishopric of Palermo.  
While matters went thus in Spain, the Marquis D' Osseyra was in Flanders, where the Duchess of Arschot, who had a design to have him married to a beautiful young Lady her Relation, amused him continually, pretending to send him every day some news of Christina, whom the Marquis thought still safe in the Covent, so careful had they been to conceal from him her Voyage into Spain. He fancied the long silence of his Mistress an effect of her modesty, as knowing her Letters were to pass through the hands of the Duchess; and he expected every hour to receive Licence to return into Spain, where he designed to beg his Majesty's permission to marry whom he pleased. Christina was alarmed with continual fears the Marquis had forgotten her, having heard nothing of him since she left Flanders. The late Duel had occasioned a thousand new Tales of her, in a Court where they are possessed with an opinion Women are good for nothing but matters of Love, not a Person but was infinitely desirous to see her; so that she could not stir a foot but she found herself compassed with a Throng of People, which made her resolve to beg his Majesty's leave to go into a Covent.  
An illustrious Princess, who owes her Birth to Italy, had her Education in France, and by I know not what Freaks of Fortune is now in Spain, having heard various Reports of Christina's Conduct, had the Curiosity to inquire strictly into it; and to be satisfied of the truth of her Adventures, writ for that purpose into France, and the Low-Countries. Soon after she received Letters which confirmed the judgement she had formerly given in her favour, and assured her, Christina's disguise was a pure effect of a Martial inclination she had a little too eagerly pursued. This Princess, who by her own experience knew a Woman may, without prejudice to her Virtue, love Travelling, Hunting, and several other Exercises, commonly looked upon as proper only for Men, prayed his Majesty he would be pleased she might take Christina into her House. The King was content, and Christina accepted the offer with the greater acknowledgement, as being upon the point of entering into a Covent, where she expected vexation enough from the Reflections of the Nuns, who, though little acquainted with the World, might have waggery and malice sufficient to torment her. 'Tis hard to express whether the Princess was more satisfied with the good humour and Complaisance of our Heroine, or she with the goodness and obligingness of her Protectoress: They agreed so well in their tempers, they quickly came to have an entire confidence in one another, and mutually imparted their most important Secrets. Christina having one day declared she was troubled there were Books published of her Adventures. You have no reason to be troubled at that, says the Princess; 'tis my fortune too, with this difference, that those which concern you are true Relations of what hath happened to you; whereas I have not had a hand in any thing they have written of me, though the Writers have had the malice to interlard their Relations with Circumstances so probable, many take them for true. Christina observing the Princess concerned, advised her to publish an account of her Life, to disown all others, and discover their falsities; and gave so many reasons for it, that the Princess (who is a Lady of great wit) applied herself to the writing it on the Morrow. Her first design was to write it in French, as a Language spoken in most Courts of Europe; but having considered there are few understand it in Spain, where she was concerned to clear herself, she published her Memoires in Spanish, and some Copies of it have been transmitted into France.  
The Princess lodged at Madrid, with a Lady of the highest Quality, and a Relation of the Prince her Husband. This Lady was a Widow, and one who more than any other, blamed the least liberties Women take; saying, there was little difference between a Woman really faulty, and one that's but suspected; the Reputation of a Woman being so delicate, that a mere suspicion, however ill-grounded, may ruin it. The Princess had often, but in vain, endeavoured to convince her of her error, and persuade her that a Woman may be so virtuous as to have nothing to reproach herself with; but it is not in a Woman's power to stop the Mouths of her Enemies, from venting Stories, and Tales of her; which is too common in the World. The Widow's severity was proof to all reasons. The Princess was discoursing one Evening to Christina, the foolish and obstinate conceitedness of this Woman, and what difficulty there was in dealing with a Person wedded to so inconvenient and unjust an opinion, and that she was troubled she was obliged in decency to see her so often. Christina, who studied to divert the Princess, promised her to Act a Part which should undeceive the Widow by her own experience: She was fully informed of all that passed at the Widows, and had observed she was very : She was a Catalonian by Birth, and would be thought to descend from the ancient Counts of Barcelona. Whenever a Person of Quality of that Province came to Court, she would be very angry, and think him illbred, if he came not to do her homage. Christina knowing all this, put on a Gentleman's Habit; and having taken order that if any came to the Gate, answer should be made, the Widow was not to be seen that day: She gave her a visit under the name of Don Artal de Cardona, newly arrived from Catalonia. The Widow, who was somewhat superannuated, being much pleased a Gentleman so handsome and well born should give her a visit, and speak so much in praise of her Family, (for Christina had attacked her weak side) she gave Christina the kindest reception imaginable: Their-discourse was long, and before parting the Widow prayed Don Artal de Cardona to do her the honour to see her again often: Don Artal promised it, and withdrew, and gave the Princess an account of the success of the first visit. She admired the wit and address of Christina, and prayed her not to omit any thing to make the Widow in Love. The Princess having visited her the same day, she could not forbear falling presently into discourse of the handsome Catalonian, and relate several Particulars to his advantage, being liberal of her praises, and extolling his wit and good Mien; adding, she knew him from a Child, and that then he promised great matters.  
Two days after, the pretended Don Artal went to see the Lady again, and knowing very well what praises please a Woman best, especially one who is precise, and stands much on her honesty, he fell a commending her Virtue and Conduct, and by little and little slipped insensibly into the Subject of her Beauty. Discourses of this kind never displease a Woman, especially a Widow, whose condition, age and pretences to Virtue oblige her to live retired. She heard all with delight, and the concern she began to feel in herself for this Gentleman, engaging her to eye him closer, and more attentively than before, he appeared so handsome, she thought she had never seen any Man so lovely. A Woman in years being more coming than others, at the third visit she was desperately in love with him. Christina gave the Princess an exact account of all, who not comprehending Christina's design to abuse the poor Widow thus, asked her one day what she proposed to herself by it: I will convince her, says Christina, how virtuous soever a Woman is, it may be accounted a piece of merit in her to resist the Attacks of a Man of good Mien, and some indulgence is due to those who are every day exposed to temptation.  
Christina sometimes waited on the Princess to the Widows, because they lodged in her House, and took great care to alter her voice in discoursing with them. Being alone with her, she had the waggery to ask the Widow the name of that handsome Gentleman she saw now and then enter her Apartment. The Widow, tickled with the praises Christina gave a Man she had a kindness for, told her a long Story of his Birth, Estate, and many other Circumstances; adding, he was her Kinsman, which was the reason she allowed of his frequent visits. Christina applauding all she said, found she had discovered the Secret to please her: And not satisfied with playing upon her under the name and disguise of Don Artal, would needs be her Confident; which she found no hard matter to attain, by continuing her Commendations of Don Artal: As soon as she had shifted Don Artal's Habit, she would presently run into the Widow's Chamber, to tell her she had seen him pass by, and that it was plain he was in Love. The Widow deceived by a discourse that flattered her desires, and fearing Christina might think Don Artal was in Love with another, and not with her, revealed to her at last what she thought to have concealed from all the World, and imparted the Secret of her love for Don Artal, desiring Christina's advice; who answered, that in matters of that nature she had best consult her own heart, and consider the bent of her affections; but that if any Passion were excusable in a Woman, it must certainly be that she entertained for a handsome Man: Christina could not say this without blushing, and her heart having reproached her for having been so free in her discourse, she took her leave.  
The desire we have to prevail for something we aim at, engages us often in more discourse than is necessary; and 'tis sometimes very dangerous to be eloquent. The Widow, reflecting on all Christina had said in praise of Don Artal, (which yet fell far short of what she thought he deserved) concluded, from Christina's discourse, she did not dislike the Catalonian: And being through her age more inclined to Jealousy, she resolved to put a trick upon Christina, by pretending all she said to her was only to discover what she thought of Don Artal. The next visit she gave her, Christina began (as she had used) to speak of Don Artal: The Widow interrupted her, telling her she might do well to change the discourse; adding, very seriously, she loved not the company of Persons so coming: She spoke this with such an Air of modesty, it might have deceived the most judicious. Poor Christina found herself disordered by so unexpected an answer, and her own Virtue causing her to approve of the Widow's discourse, she went away much troubled and perplexed, not having the confidence to answer a discourse that reflected on her modesty. When she came to the Princess, she complained of her misfortune in very lamentable expressions, as if the most innocent actions still turned to her disadvantage. The Princess, who was very discerning, and very much mistrusted those Women who are over careful of outward appearances, told her, she had run too hastily into the Snare, and that possibly the Widow did but pay her in her own Coyn. Christina, who had been frighted at this Adventure, took courage at the judicious discourse of the Princess, and resolving to know the truth, put on her Man's Habit. The Widow the while applauded herself for the good success of her Plot, in ridding her of so dangerous a Rival: She expected, with impatience, her Cardona; resolving, for the future, to take her advantage of the eagerness of his addresses: As soon as he came in, she gave him the usual reception; caressing him in the highest manner imaginable, with design to inspire boldness into him. And as closely as she adhered to her Virtue, her Love made her that day express a little forwardness, which Don Artal seemed not to understand. The Widow, who had a great opinion of his wit, wondered to see him so dull; and was confounded at his changing his discourse, and falling upon the Subject of her high Birth, in terms which would have been pleasing enough to the Vanity of the Lady, had she not been that day under a strong influence of the Planet of Love, which for the time had the Ascendant of her heart; and Don Artal very well knew it, though he had the malice not to take notice of it. She did all she could to make him reassume the former discourse, and he as carefully avoided it, magnifying the brave Actions of one of her Ancestors, who had signalised himself in driving away the Moors out of Granada. But she was then indisposed for War, and expected a Language less Martial, and more tender. Don Artal soon after took his leave, and the Widow remained very ill satisfied with his bashfulness. The Princess, sensible of the distraction she was under, thought it would be a pleasure to her, to have the liberty of musing alone of her imaginary Lover: and having learned of Christina all the Particulars of the last Scene, she observed how careful most Women, especially the precise, are to salve up the appearances, not much regarding the essential part, if they may but cheat the World, and be esteemed Persons of a severe life, and strictly virtuous: while those who converse much with the World, making small account of some little liberties they take without scruple, are not safe from obloquy and censure, though really provided of a great stock of Virtue; while the others enjoy their Amours privately, and triumph in public for the applause this counterfeit reservedness procures them. In truth, said the Princess, those of our Sex are very unhappy in being obliged, besides the satisfaction due to their Conscience, to satisfy the World, which is always disposed to believe the worst of us. 'Tis certain, replied Christina, we cannot always blame them, there being Women of all Characters, who by their ill Conduct draw upon themselves very hard Censures, and too often very deservedly; though it must be agreed the Example of one guilty Woman, gives occasion for condemning an hundred innocent.  
The Spaniards, though they hate the memory of the Moors and Saracens expelled Granada, Murcia, and Leon by Ferdinand and Isabel, yet they retain to this day several of their Customs; particularly, their Gallantries, their Bull-sports, and darting the Cane on Horseback, Divertisements the Court of Spain is very much taken with, where Operas are not known, and their Comedies (for the most part) ill. It was then a time of great rejoicing at Madrid; not for the taking of a Town, but to celebrate the Birth of their Monarch. The Princess was invited to see the Sports, and took Christina along with her. I shall not give you here a Description of these Sports which prove mortal to many who think their Valour consists in daring a Bull, letting fly at him with their Darts, and then retiring with much skill and agility, though it frequently happens the Bull is too quick for these Gallants, tosses them in the Air, and gores them with his Horns; which sometimes dispatches them into another World, and generally maims them in this. This piece of fool-hardiness were excusable in ordinary People, who are drawn to it by Custom, and applause of the Populace; but cannot be too much blamed in young Gentlemen of the best Quality, who hazard their life to so little purpose, in fight with Beasts as they do in Spain: where you may see them bravely mounted with a Dart in their Hand, expecting, in the middle of a Piazza, the coming of a Bull madded by the People; and though he come at them with a fierceness capable to astonish the highest courage, they bravely attack him, and pierce him so dextrously with their Lance, that sometimes they run him quite through the Body: But you may also see the Bull sometimes unhorsed them, to the extreme peril of the Rider, and terrible fright of the Ladies. This Solemnity where this Princess and Christina attended, was like others of the kind, where the fortunate rashness of those who came off well was applauded, and the tragical miscarriage of others lamented. The Morrow after these bloody Sports, the Cavaliers run Courses on Horseback, and dart the Cane as they run; which is done in this manner. They appear at the Barriere, with a Head-piece, and light Armour, made (one would think) of Steel polished white; and have commonly some Devise of gallantry, or some Motto on their Shields, and a multitude of Ribbons of the colour best pleases their Mistresses. Christina had seen several of these Courses, and having in the Armies performed the most violent Exercises, she thought this not very difficult, where all she had to do was to spur her Horse, and let fly a Cane with dexterity. She told the Princess she would gladly run a Career, and ask the Widow for a Devise, the better to assure her of her Passion. The Princess thought her in jest; but our Heroine telling her she doubted not but to come off well, the Princess undertook to provide her fit Equipage; and Christina, under the name of Don Artal of Cardona, went to the Widow for a Devise, letting her know she would run a Course for love of her, since other young People did it for their Mistresses, only he desired her she would give him a fitting Devise. The Reader may expect one of those witty ones so usual in Spain, but a Woman of her humour order her life quite otherwise than the rest of her Sex: One so precise being no less careful to conceal, than an airy vain Coquet to make known she is Courted: The Widow refused to give Don Artal a Devise, telling him she was not of those women's humour, who judge of their Servants love by the Colour of their Ribbons. I rely not, adds she, on such slight appearances, too often deceitful; I must have better proof of your Passion, to persuade me 'tis real: (The truth is, she expected such proof as Christina could not give:) If you loved me, as you pretend, you would rather stay with me while they are darting the Canes, and would be more willing to give me proof of your love in my Chamber, than in a public place: what is done there generally serving only for matter of discourse to the Spectators. Don Artal assured her he loved her passionately, and thought to have given her an Evidence of his esteem of her, in carrying her Colours and Devise at the Course, being ready to do any thing she could desire to convince her of his love. Were your love as real and sincere as you would make me believe, would you put me upon the necessity of appearing so forward, and not guests at part of what is expected from you? Don Artal returning no answer, to a discourse so easy to understand, the Widow was so ashamed she had spoken so freely, and, withal, unsuccessfully, that she turned about presently and locked herself in her Closet, for fear her tears should betray her. Being there alone, she gave vent to a torrent of tears despair forced her to; considering with herself, that having lived several years retired from Company, and free from those Passions young Widows are usually troubled with, (for at six and forty years of age she counted herself of their number) she had the misfortune to be taken with the addresses of a harebrained young Fellow, who perhaps designed only to fool her: The next moment she consulted her Glass, which telling her she had charms enough left still to procure love, she attributed Don Artal's reservedness, to the tenderness of his years, and want of experience: She was so pleased with this fancy, and thought it so reasonable, that she could no longer doubt but the timerousness of her Lover, was a pure effect of his small acquaintance with the World, being newly arrived from Barcelona, where he had not used to see Persons of her Quality and Birth; besides, she knew young Country Gentlemen have such Chimerical Ideas of Ladies of Quality, that they think it enough to honour and admire them, without daring to push on their Passion any further. While the Widow was thus deep in meditation, Christina, sufficiently ashamed at what she had heard, went back to the Princess, whom she found busy about her Equipage for the Course, not doubting in the least but the Widow had given the Devise: But when Christina informed the Princess of her answer, (though her modesty made her leave out several particulars) the Princess could not forbear laughing, especially when told by Christina she durst go no more to the Widows, for fear of being put out of Countenance, and quite shamed by her forwardness.  
On the Morrow the Princess and Christina were in a Balcony, near the King, to see the Courses. As soon as the Gentlemen appeared, all Eyes were fixed to observe their Devises: Count Talara, as he passed under the Lady's Balcony, put off his Head-piece, making them a very low Reverence: His Motto was, Quiero mucho, ye spero poco; that is, My love is great, and my hope small. That concerns you, says the Princess to Christina: It put her to the blush, and the King observing it, had the Curiosity to inquire the reason: The Princess, very glad of an occasion to divert him gave him her sense of Count Talara's Motto; and added, that Christina could, if she pleased, perform a Career as well as the best of those who were to run. The King saying he did not think it, the Princess conjured Christina to make use of the Equipage (she had provided) for one Course at least. The young Monarch expressed so earnest a desire to see how well Christina would come off, there was no denying him, and the Princess, their Request. That less notice might be taken, she pretended herself not well, and withdrew. Her next care was for a Motto somewhat answerable to Count Talara's; which, being very witty, she was not long to seek: She caused these words to be written on her Shield, No ay que amar, y me nos que esperar de quien tienne duenno; 'Tis in vain to love, much more to expect good from him who is already engaged. Christina, having set all things in as good order as the shortness of the time would permit, appeared boldly at the Barriere, and called for Canes, but was troubled with an Accident she had not foreseen: The Order was, that the Cavaliers who presented themselves for the Course, should tell their names, and make themselves known to the Officer appointed to Register them, to prevent disorder usual on such occasions. Our Heroine, loath to undergo that Law, was denied the Canes: The King, who had his Eye upon her, perceiving her in disorder on that account, ordered his Brother Don John to let them know it was his Majesty's pleasure that Gentleman should be dispensed with from telling his name, or showing his face. The King's pleasure was no sooner known, but Canes were delivered her: And her refusing to submit to the Rules of the Course, and the King's dispensation, gave cause to believe 'twas an extraordinary Person not willing to be known. This drew all Eyes upon her, every one guessing who it should be. Great notice was taken of the Motto: Count Talara, observing the opposition between it and his, desired, with impatience, to run a Course against this unknown Person, who managed his Horse very well; but it was not probable Christina should be as skilful at handling and darting the Cane, as the Spaniards, who are used to that Exercise from their Youth: And 'tis certain our Heroine had run a great Risque of being unhorsed, had not Don John, foreseeing what might follow, given Count Talara a private hint the Stranger (he was to encounter with) was Christina. You may easily guests the effect this intimation had on the Amorous Count, who was confirmed in the truth of it by the Motto he had observed on her Shield: He could not at first find in his heart to run against Christina, but having thought better of it, he put himself in a posture. The Count, who had already run several Courses, with advantage, against the most expert in the Sport, meeting the Stranger, pretended himself disordered and unready when he should have darted his Cane: Christina, without losing a moment's time, threw hers; which the Count appeared sostunned with, that he fell off his Horse: Christina was so confounded founded at the loud acclamations of the People (who judge of things by appearance, without examining the truth,) she knew not whether she had got the better or the worse, till she was presented with a Rose of Diamonds, the Prize appointed the Conqueror. Our Heroine, pleased with her success, retired, loath to hazard in another Course the Reputation she had gained by this.  
Count Talara, having had a sore fall, was carried home to be blooded, which was much to the advantage of Christina's Reputation. The Count being known to be very expert at that Sport, the whole Court sent to see how he did. And the Princess made Christina sensible of the Obligation put upon her by the Count, who had fallen off his Horse of purpose, like a true Spanish Gallant, and advised her to send one to inquire of his health: Christina, with some difficulty, consented to it. The Count, ravished with joy at the Compliment, answered him who was sent, that his fall did not much trouble him, but he had a wound would not be quickly cured. It vexed Christina she had given the occasion for such an answer, fearing the Count would pretend to some advantages for the Obligation he had put upon her. The Princess bid her set her heart at rest, and oblige the Widow with the Rose of Diamonds she had gained at the Course. Christina, though fearful to engage further with so forward a Woman, complied however with the desires of the Princess: She shifted herself into her Habit of Don Artal, and presently went into the Widow's Apartment, where she found her very much disordered.  
She was so precise she would not appear at the Sports, but knowing Don Artal would be there, and being much concerned what became of him, she had sent a trusty Person of purpose to observe how things went, and bring her exact information: He brought her the names of all those who were Registered for the Course, but not his, for whose sake alone she had the curiosity to read all the rest: She was much concerned at the missing him, a Woman ever passionately wishing the glory of her Lover. Her Spy told her there was a Gentleman appeared incognito, and had refused to tell his name; and that the King, to prevent disorder, had dispensed with the formality; and that this unknown Person had unhorsed the famous Count Talara, and retired with a Rose of Diamonds of very great value. The Widow wished with all her heart, this Unknown might be no other but Don Artal; but then thought she, how should a Youth, and such a Novice in Love, be too hard for a Gentleman of so much skill and experience: with that Don Artal enters the Chamber; she presently asked him what news of the Course, and why he had not been there. I was unwilling to appear, answers he, without your Devise; and since you refused it me, I had no mind to show myself where you would not be. I knew you had not appeared there, said the Widow, though the good opinion I had of you made me hope you might be that illustrious Unknown, who so eminently signalised himself, and carried the Prize; at least my heart gave me none better deserved it than you: but I see our hearts often deceive us. You are not deceived in that, Madam, says Don Artal; and see here (adds he, presenting her with the Rose of Diamonds) the Mark you may know that unknown Person by, who hath had the good fortune to deserve your esteem. The Widow, surprised at a Present so glorious and unexpected, received it very gladly, and embraced the occasion, so luckily given her, to present her Servant with a String of Diamonds of very great value, praying him to keep it as a Pledge of her Love. Don Artal, for fear of angering her, durst not refuse it; but finding she began to fall again into very passionate expressions, he pretended business of haste, and withdrew; having promised to return on the Morrow, at an hour she appointed. Christina having shown the Diamonds to the Princess, who understood Jewels very well, was amazed to hear they were worth fifteen thousand Crowns. This excessive Liberality fully convincing them of the violence of her Passion, Christina had compassion on her, and told the Princess she would disabuse her: The Princess having sufficiently diverted herself with the Intrigue, and thinking the Widow had punishment enough, said nothing against it. On the Morrow, at the hour the Widow had appointed, Christina sent her back her Diamonds, with this Letter.  
'Tis time to disabuse you, Madam; the Don Artal you love, is a Man in appearance, but really one of your Sex: I am in good earnest, and unwilling to take the advantage of your Liberality, being incapable to satisfy your Love. You need not fear me; I am well acquainted with the nature of our Sex, and know it a hard matter to resist temptations; but I pity those who have not the power to do it: be you less Censorious for the future, and never fear my discretion.  
The Widow, who expected Don Artal, had not forgot any thing that might the better set off the weak Charms of a Woman of her age: She thought the Present he had made her, the day before, a good Omen, and that she had reason to expect something better at the Assignation. She tasted beforehand a thousand imaginary pleasures, and began to think long while her Lover arrived; when, lo, a Letter is brought her. The String of Diamonds presently alarmed her: and having read the two first Lines, she scarce held up from swooning; her surprise was so great, she fancied herself not well awake. Having finished reading her Letter, and reflecting on the beauty, and other Circumstances of her pretended Lover, she believed all true that was written. She was not a little taken with her Generosity, in sending back her Diamonds; and out of a greatness of Soul, incident to Persons well born, which ordinary People are not acquainted with, or the love she still retained for the Memory of Don Artal, she had the Generosity to send back the Diamonds to Christina, with a Letter.  
Though you have deserved Reproach for having deceived me, I cannot hate that in a Maid which I loved in the counterfeit Don Artal. Rest satisfied with the advantage you have had over me, and receive again the Present I made you: Yours to me shall be ever dear, and in high esteem with me. I desire, if you think fit, your acquaintance; and am not in the least indisposed to be your Friend. And I must declare my weakness is such, I cannot mistrust a Person I have once loved.  
Christina having received this Letter, carried it to the Princess, telling her she was much troubled with this String of Diamonds, and very scrupulous of keeping a Present so considerable. The Princess having read the Letter, advised her to keep the Present, and think no more of the matter; and would not permit her to be further acquainted with the Widow, (as Christina designed) knowing she would owe Christina a spite, for the discovery she had made of her.  
News was then received in Spain of the taking of S. Gislain, by the French; which very much alarmed the Court of Spain, who thought the rigour of the season (it being December) would have hindered, or delayed at least, the Conquest of the place. The Spaniards vented their rage upon the poor French living in Spain, without sparing those who had been thirty years Naturalised. They seized their Goods, banished their Persons, and exercised upon them all sorts of violence: Which is no new thing in that Country; for as often as the French take a Town, burn a Ship, or obtain a Victory, the Spaniards seize all the Goods of the French who Trade in their Towns. Judge you then how many Pressures they are exposed to under the Reign of our Lewis the Great: This commonly ends in a great Tax laid upon them, after payment of which they let them alone for some time; but upon the next loss they have, the Persecution gins afresh, which happens so often, that many have been forced to withdraw and quit the Country. A Merchant of Bearn of Christina's acquaintance, and one she was obliged to, found himself under this Storm raised against the French upon the taking of St. Gislain. Christina protected him openly, having spoken in his favour to Don John of Austria, and represented to him the injustice done those poor People, who settle there, relying upon their Letters of Naturalisation, and with great labour and industry supply the Natural laziness of the Spaniards, furnishing them with a thousand Conveniences they would never know but for the French. The Prince, at her entreaty, caused restitution to be made this Merchant of all had been taken from him, and promised to use the rest favourably. This got our Heroine very great applause, but the hatred those of Spain naturally bear all Strangers, made them attribute the favour she had obtained to something supernatural: which occasioned the reviving the ridiculous Report formerly gone about, of her being a Witch, and that with the help of her Art she could effect what she pleased. After so many extraordinary matters published of her, 'tis no wonder the dull and sottish People gave credit to this Report, while the Court laughed at it, and the Princess made sport of it with Christina. But her Enemies would not lose the advantage of so favourable a Disposition of the people. The Marchioness d' Osseyra and the Countess of Benavidez durst not open their Mouths against her, since the Princess had taken her into her protection; but the favour Don John had granted her, awaked the hatred of the one, and the jealousy of the other, lest the Court should at last consent to her being Married to the Marquis d' Osseyra. This made them resolve to use all their endeavours to foment the opinion of her being a Witch. Having learned that Christina was that unknown Person, who had unhorsed Count Talara, almost without touching him; they took care to spread abroad this Circumstance, and others, to confirm the people in their error. Their Artifice was so great, and their Emissaries so diligent, that several people of good sense, deceived by a number of probable Circumstances, gave credit to this extravagant Report. That was not all; for, cloaking their malice with a false zeal for Religion, they exhibited an information against Christina in the Inquisition.  
The Inquisition is so formidable a Court, that the name of an Inquisitor makes them in Spain tremble, the severe punishments inflicted by that Tribunal on Jews, Moors, and Heretics there, having gained it a high Reputation. The wiser sort speak of it with respect, the lose hate the name on't, and the people generally have it in veneration. As soon as any Man is informed against in that Court, not a Courtier hath the boldness to say a word in his favour, for fear of being brought in as an accessary, as they commonly are who are of a different Religion. The King's Authority is of no force at all there; and there is not one Precedent can be shown, where the Catholic Kings have intermeddled with any Affair the Inquisition had taken Cognizance of.  
The people are so afraid of them, that when I was in Spain I was assured, that the Court being met one Afternoon, some of the Inquisitors stood at a Window which looked into a rich Burgher's Garden, where was a Pear-tree full of excellent Fruit. One of them had a mind to some of those Pears, and sent his Man to desire some of them; but the Gardener having refused to give him any, the Inquisitor dispatched a Familiar (that is an Usher of the Inquisition) to tell the owner of the Garden the Inquisitor would speak with him: The poor Man was so frighted, he was scarce able to go to him; but recovered himself again, being told they desired only a Plate of his Pears: The Burgher promised to send it, and was glad he came off so. As soon as he got home he sent the Inquisitors all the Pears on the Tree; and to prevent being so frighted again, cut down the Pear-tree.  
To return to Christina, the Inquisitors having received the Information, caused her to be arrested; and, (which was worse) left her in Prison a Fortnight before she was examined: 'Twas in favour to her Sex she was interrogated then, it being ordinary with them to keep a Man a Prisoner six, or twelve Months before he be examined. However the Princess, though advised to the contrary, laboured privately for her, but to no purpose, it being not in her power to discover the particulars of her Charge. Our Heroine, who had no reason to fear the Inquisition, upon the account of Religion, being Orthodox as her Judges, was troubled at the noise she knew this business would make; not doubting but it would come to the Marquis d' Osseyra's Ears, and that this, and her former misfortunes, would create in him an aversion against her, the disasters she had met with, though innocent, being enough to draw upon her the slight of a Person of Quality: her business the while looked very ill. The Widow I have spoken of, having heard the news, and considering her having carried away the Prize, at the Course, from Count Talara, made no doubt but she was a Witch; and reflecting on what had passed between them two, when she took her for Don Artal, she was in horror at the danger she had exposed herself to, by Conversing with a Person, who, by the assistance of the Devil, could appear in what Form she pleased; and was ready to make her complaint to the Princess, for bringing such a one into her House; and would have done it, but for shame of discovering her weakness: Yet, being scrupulous of concealing so aggravating a Circumstance against the Criminal, she went to the chief Inquisitor, and told him, that to discharge her Conscience, she came to inform him what had happened to her with that Woman in Prison, who had several times appeared to her in the shape of a young Gentleman of Catalonia, called Don Artal de Cardona; but she took care not to tell him the other particulars of the Intrigue, choosing rather to lose her Diamonds, than to make it known she had presented Christina with them, as a mark of her Love. The chief Inquisitor, out of respect to the Widow's quality, dispensed with her in several formalities, taking only her Hand to the Depositions, which was one of the strongest Evidences in the Case. It is incredible what a noise this business made in Spain, where they could hardly believe a Maid could, without the help of Magic, do Actions so extraordinary, and so much above her Sex. It was the general discourse, and they expected every day a solemn Judgement and Sentence, suitable to the Learning and Integrity of those worthy, and able Persons, who sit on that Bench. The people had already set the day of her Execution, and, I believe, hired Windows to stand in to see it. Some among them, to colour the better their losses in the Low-Countries, said there was no reason to wonder at them, since this Woman had bewitched all their Generals. The Princess was amazed at the ridiculous stories she heard every day of the unfortunate Christina: The more she justified her, the more they condemned her; and the least good Office done for her, was very ill taken by the people. The very Court was troubled with it, the greater part not knowing what to think on't, the rest suspending their judgements till the Inquisitors should pass sentence: The first examination was wholly spent in formalities. The Inquisitors were surprised at her confidence, and to see so little appearance of fear in her looks. This made the Reverend Judges believe she trusted much to her Art, or was innocent. Two days after she was examined again; the first question was, what Charms she had made use of to take the shape of Don Artal de Cardona? She answered, none other, but what people of wit make use of to amuse Fools: She told them at large, that the great severity, or hypocrisy, of the Widow, made her desire to put a trick upon her, by visiting her under the name of Don Artal: The knowledge she had that Lady could not see very well having encouraged her resolution for that divertisement, in order to the rendering her less Censorious for the future. Then she was asked, how she could, with such a slight Cane, unhorsed Count Talara? She answered, he had notice beforehand, she was to run a Course, and that his fall was rather an effect of the Spanish Gallantry, than any Charm of hers. She was then questioned what made her disguise herself so often, and in Habits so different? She answered, that, having from a Child had a strong inclination for Arms, the death of her Parents had given her the opportunity of following that noble Employment? In a word, her answers were so modest, and pertinent, that the Inquisitors, being choice Men, and well seen in business, were persuaded of her innocence. And, which is most to be admired, the Archbishop of Saragosa, who was one of the Inquisitors, and the most prejudiced against her, knew her to be the same he had formerly seen in the Covent of Ursulines at Saragosa; and had occasioned the reprimands he gave the Nuns, upon his mistaking her to be a Man: He told the other Inquisitors the story, and from a severe Judge, became her Protector, and Friend.  
As terrible as the Inquisition is in Spain, it cannot fright Love. Count Talara, extremely concerned for the Imprisonment of our Heroine, being told by the Princess, the strongest proof Christina's Enemies made use of to destroy her, was the advantage she had of him in the Course, was so troubled to hear so ill use made of his Gallantry, that he put himself voluntarily into the Inquisition, and desired his Process should be made, declaring himself accessary to the Crimes of Christina. The Inquisitors were astonished to see how easily he rendered himself Prisoner, and the people failed not to say, the Witch had by her Art forced him to't. The Count was examined, and his answer found to agree with Christina's. The Inquisitors would have set him at liberty, which he refused to accept till our Heroine had hers: which was granted her on the Morrow, to the wonderful astonishment of all Fools. Count Talara was so troubled he had, though innocently, occasioned her persecution, he never durst see her more.  
Christina had the fate of most people in trouble, every one strove to make her believe how much they were concerned for her, (now the danger was over.) The whole Court Complemented her upon her delivery, and the King had the goodness to tell her, he was glad to hear she had cleared herself with such credit. The Widow (fearing Christina, to be revenged, would publish the passion she had expressed for the pretended Don Artal) Courted her friendship, and assured her she had never spoken against her, but to clear her Conscience. Christina had the goodness to pardon her, and they lived thence forwards very good friends.  
Christina in the mean time was very much troubled she had no news of the Marquis d' Osseyra; sometimes she was afraid he had forgot her, the next moment she rejected that thought as injurious to the fidelity of her Lover, and in the end remained so perplexed she knew not what to think. The Princess, who had great kindness for her, perceiving her more pensive, and melancholy, than ordinary, did all in her power to divert her, and bring her into humour: She told her all the silly stories the people made of her Black Art, and gave her a hundred witty Jests on that account. Christina said she was not surprised at it, having from her Chamber in the Prison heard the discourses of other Prisoners, of the horrible Crimes she was accused of. Since you heard their discourse, 'tis not possible, replied the Princess, but you must be well acquainted with their affairs, it being commonly a comfort to one in misery to relate and declare his misfortune; and the ordinary entertainment of Prisoners, is to tell one another by what mischance they came thither. I confess, said Christina, I have harkened to them sometimes, with a great deal of attention; but most of those who are Prisoners in the Inquisition, being charged with impiety, or some other Crime relating to Religion, they are very mistrustful, every one taking his Fellow for a Spy, or a Trepan: Yet I remember I often heard the Complaints of a Soldier, who blamed extremely the Ingratitude of his Country, in retaining him Prisoner in the Inquisition, for Actions which would have been highly rewarded in a well-governed State.  
He boasted of great services he had done his Catholic Majesty in Flanders; where, perceiving the Spanish Regiments grow thin, he married a Wife at Conde, by whom he had two Boys: But the place being afterwards taken by his most Christian Majesty, he was made a Prisoner of War, and never knew more what became of his Wife. Upon exchange of Prisoners he was not long after set at liberty, and was in Garrison at Air, where he married another Wife; but that place having also been taken afterwards by the French, he was carried to Cambray, where he thought himself secure: There he married a third Wife, which began to rejoice his heart with her fruitfulness, when that place also was taken by the most Christian King in person; that at length, being tired with the War, and fearing his person fatal to the places he entered, he quitted Flanders, leaving several brave Boys there, who would in time make good Soldiers for the King, and was returned to Madrid: He added, that he passed homeward through France, and observed that Kingdom to be so full of people, and the Villages so near one another, that he thought he had travelled two hundred Leagues all in one Town, which appeared to him very extraordinary, who had been used to travel five and twenty, or thirty Leagues in Spain, without seeing a House, unless it were some pitiful Venta, or sorry Inn: And having considered with himself that the misfortune of Spain proceeded from its being so desert, he was willing, what in him lay, to repair that defect, by marrying again: But two of the Wives he had left in Flanders having followed him to Madrid, and found him at home with his Wife, it angered them so grievously that they had recourse to Justice, and charged him with several other misdemeanours and impieties: that the Inquisition taking Cognizance of his Crimes had clapped him up in Prison, and kept him there, though in all he had done, he had no other end but the service of his King, and glory of his Country. The Princess could not forbear laughing at Christina's Relation, which gave her so true a Character of a Spaniard; it being certain there is nothing so conceitedly haughty, as a Spanish Soldier at his return into Spain, from the Army in Flanders: he thinks himself the only Man that hath preserved the State, and that now he may be allowed to follow his inclinations, and take his pleasure without punishment, or control.  
As soon as our Heroine was alone, she fell into her former fit of melancholy, as if she had presaged what was a driving on against her in Flanders.  
The Marquis d' Osseyra knew nothing of his Mistress being gone into Spain, but thought her still in the Covent at Mons; the Duchess of Arschot having taken care to keep him in that error, by writing often to him under pretence of sending him news of Christina: She advised him still not to be too hasty, and a little patience would certainly make him happy. But the Duchess had other designs: the interest of her Family, and her particular dependences on Spain, made her resolve to have her Niece married to a Gentleman of that Nation. This Niece of hers had not yet appeared abroad, but was bred in a Covent; all the knowledge they had of her, was that she was very handsome, and a very considerable Fortune. The quality and merit of the Marquis d' Osseyra, made the Duchess think him a fit Match for her Niece. In order to this, she was willing to endeavour curing him of his passion for Christina, being fully persuaded the Beauty, the Birth and Estate of her Niece, would be sufficient to accomplish her design within a short time after her appearing at Court. But having observed by the Marquis' Letters, the constancy of his affection for Christina, the Duchess despaired of success, and respited the sending her Niece to Brussels, for fear her Charms should have, upon some less interested person, the effect she desired they should work on the Marquis alone. About that time it was the French took S. Gistain; the Duchess fearing, from the situation of the place, Mons in the Spring might have the like fortune, which would break all her measures, and make it too late to execute her design; she resolved to go to Brussels to communicate her intentions to the Duchess de Villa Hermosa, who was very well pleased with the zeal she expressed for the Spaniards. Divers means were proposed to assure the success of the Marriage, but all appearing uncertain, or dilatory, they parted without coming to any resolution. The Marquis d' Osseyra went every day to see the Duchess d' Arschot, who, very defirous to penetrate his sentiments, after a great deal of discourse, by the by, advertised him, as his Friend, that Christina had in confidence acquainted her with her design of making herself a Nun; but if it should be so, he might be otherwise provided of a Mistress, to supply the loss of this. The Marquis was much alarmed at Christina's resolution, & entreated the Duchess to give it all the obstruction she could, which she promised very frankly. Having given the Duchess de Villa Hermosa an account of this difcourse, she found her no less than herself at a loss what course to take: But at last, seeing themselves straitened in time, the report of his Christian Majesty leaving Paris in sew days being spread all about, they agreed that the Duchess should advise the Marquis to steal his Mistress out of the Covent, and marry her as soon as he could get her out. They thought this a very probable way to effect the design, because the Duchess might easily deceive him, in substituting her Niece in the place of Christina. The Duchess of Arschot would not hear of it, as a thing unworthy a person of her quality to use any Artifice to make a Spaniard marry her Niece; but at length her ambition, and the flatteries of the Duchess de Villa Hermosa, prevailed with her to reject all these considerations; not doubting, with her dextrous address, she might trap the Marquis; and that the beauty of her Niece, and respect due to her Birth, would stop his complaining of a Cheat put upon him so much to his advantage. Soon after this delicate Project, the Marquis came to the Duchess of Arschot's: The ordinary expressions of civility were scarce over, but she told him, with some concern, that word was sent her from Mons, Christina was ever day more and more resolved to take the Nun's Habit, and that she durst no longer undertake but she would suddenly do it. The Marquis answered her, it would break his heart; and conjured her not to forsake him, but use all her interest with Christina to divert her from this resolution. To what purpose, says the Duchess; for neither the King, nor your Relations will ever give way to your marrying a Stranger that has no Fortune, is but of mean Birth, and (as virtuous as I take her for) hath occasioned very different judgements of her: To disabuse you, 'tis my opinion you should no longer oppose her design of turning Nun, it will be more for your Reputation than you are ware of, and this Action alone will justify all the rest of her Life. The Marquis confessed she had Reason of her side, but that the violence of his Love would not let him yield to it; that he would make himself happy to his own satisfaction, without troubling himself what others thought of it, as being not of their judgement who think a Man's happiness depends on the opinion others have of it. Since you are of that mind, says the Duchess, I will let you see how true a Friend I am to you, in doing you a piece of service more considerable than you could have hoped for, and such as shall make you happy all the days of your life. The Marquis assured her he should ever acknowledge her favours, and promised to do whatever she advised him to. You must then, replies the Duchess, steal her out of the Covent, and I will undertake she shall consent to it; for her desire of turning Nun proceeds only from her fear that you have forgot her. And as all Women are very sensible of being slighted, she is glad of amusing the World, by giving out she will spend her Life in a Cloister, though it be in truth only to save her credit, in case you should not love her: And that you may be no longer exposed to the freaks of Fortune, or the violences of the Duke de Villa Hermosa, my Almoner shall marry you in my Chapel, as soon as you have got her out of the Covent. The Marquis, overjoyed at a Project that so pleasingly flattered his passion, threw himself at her Feet, not having the power to answer her a word, but his dumb Eloquence expressed his mind clearly enough: They agreed how all things should be carried, and the Daches on the Morrow went for Mons, to dispose things for execution of the design.  
She told her Niece she had made choice of a Husband for her, with whom she should have abundant cause to be satisfied; but that there were invincible reasons to oblige her to permit herself to be stolen out of the Covent, and be married without Ceremony; adding she was not to be surprised at it, as being all for her advantage. The young Lady, who in the whole course of her breeding had been taught to pay the Duchess very great respects, submitted herself wholly to her pleasure. The Duchess having made sure of her Niece, and all others she had use of, writ to the Marquis d'Osseyra, to let him know all was in readiness; and that he had no more to do but come the next night to Mons, with two of his trustiest Domestics, and that he might come to her House, where she would tell him how the business should be managed. The Marquis, who waited with impatience for news from the Duchess, failed not to set out the hour she appointed. He arrived at Mons, and went to the Duchess', as had been agreed on. You see, says she, what I expose myself to for your sake: But that you may not be blamed for this Action, I think it very fit you should write to the Duke de Villa Hermosa, to let him know you are married; and entreat him, that since 'tis a done thing, that he will write into Spain, in your favour, that the Court may agree to it: I will take care your Letter shall be delivered him, and send him word the same time, I have had no hand in your business. The Marquis consented to all she desired, but had his Head so full of Love, he would never have been able to finish his Letter without the Duchess' help, who made him write what she pleased, without naming Christina, with design to take her advantage by that Letter to justify herself to the World, as if the Marquis had endeavoured to steal away her Niece, and that he might be forced to marry her, if the business in hand should unexpectedly miscarry.  
All things thus ordered, she forgot not any thing that might heighten the beauty of her Niece. It was no hard matter to set off a young Lady, whom Nature had made very handsome and amiable: The Duchess having visited her a little afore night, gave her new instructions for her dress, and deportment, and returned very well satisfied with her Charms. She appointed her to be at the Covent-Garden Gate, with a Maid who was of the Plot, and to follow the Gentleman who came in search of them at the hour she had assigned them: She charged her by any means not to speak, to cover herself with a great Veil, and not show her Face, till the Priest had finished the Ceremony; telling her, it was no more than in decency was requisite, to satisfy the Gentleman, and the Company, of her modesty. The Duchess being returned home, told the Marquis all things were ordered as he could wish. At last, the night so much desired by the Marquis, and perhaps by the Lady as earnestly longed for, was come; the amorous Spaniard, full of good intentions, and led by his passion, entered the Garden, through a Door, of which they had given him a Key for the purpose. He found there two persons veiled, one whereof was about the height of Christina: Having approached, with a respect not free from fear, he took her by the hand, and led her to the Duchess' with the haste you may imagine. They went strait to the Chapel, where the Priest waited their coming: The Marquis fell presently at the feet of her he thought his Mistress, to thank her for her goodness, and began to say such things as Love inspires a Man in his condition withal: But the Duchess hastened the Priest to do his Office, and said to the Marquis, he was not to lose time in fruitless discourse, to keep his Mistress from the pleasure she proposed to herself, in being at liberty to look upon him, without wronging her modesty. The Marquis having his head full of the thoughts of Christina, fancied he saw her, without showing her face: He was satisfied with a kiss of her hand, fell on his knees and was married. The Ceremony was scarce ended, but the Marquis cried out he was the happiest Man alive, since it was not in the power of his Enemies to prevent his being united to the most amiable Person in the World. Yes, and more happy than you are ware of, replies the Duchess, throwing off the Bride's Veil, since in marrying you to my Niece, who might be the Darling of the best Man on Earth, I have married you to a Lady of great Birth, and a considerable Fortune. The Marquis was so troubled at the discourse of the Duchess, and the surprising beauty of her Niece, that for some time he stood mute. Your Relations, and Friends, have agreed to this Marriage, continues the Duchess; and nothing but a Merit equal to yours could have prevailed with me to have a hand in a trick of this kind, to make you happy against your will. The Marquis was so agitated with different motions, he could not answer a word, needing all the respect those of his Nation have for Persons of the best quality, to keep him from breaking out into outrage against the Duchess. She was about to speak to him of the advantages of this Affair. Madam, says the Marquis, interrupting her, I pray insult not over my grief; for I know not whether I shall be able to take it at your hands. This was but one of those expressions of sorrow and regret he let fall, which forced tears from the new Marchioness, who had not any hand in her Aunt's Cheat, and expected Compliments from her Husband of a very different nature. The Marquis moved at her tears, and wounded to the heart with his own sorrows, went into another Room, and would have left the House with a resolution to go whithersoever despair would lead him: But the Duchess, who fearing the noise this business might make, had the foresight, and care, to make sure of an Order from the Duke de Villa Hermosa to arrest the Marquis; had it put in execution, by persons who waited at the Gate for that purpose. He was so disordered, he scarce knew he was arrested. An Officer, his Friend, whom the Duchess sent for to speak with him, endeavoured to persuade him to be satisfied, but without effect. The Marquis passed all the night in very great disquiet: the morrow the Duke de Villa Hermosa arrived at Mons, where he had long discourse with the Marquis; I know not the particulars, but 'tis probable he showed him the advantages of this Marriage, and the necessity lay upon him to make no more stir about the business: which if he did, he would be laughed at, and provoke the Court, his Friends, and the Duchess' Family all against him. The Marquis convinced with these reasons, and seeing there was no remedy, submitted to the advice of the Duke de Villa Hermosa; and thought it best to return to his Wife, and beg her pardon for what was passed. But she would not hear him, being resolved to pay him in the Coin she had received from him, and avoid his company who had so much slighted her. The Duchess found all her Authority over her Niece, little enough to retain her: She would not afford an Ear to any thing could be said for him, who had expressed himself sorry he had married her.  
A beautiful Lady hath great advantages, her Complaints are moving, her Reproaches wound to the quick, and her Tears find compassion in the stoniest heart. The Marquis, who had approached his Lady with a great deal of indifference, was so sensible of her Complaints, her Reproaches and Tears, that he fell on his knees, protesting the Crime she thought him guilty of, a pure effect of his astonishment; and that if she would vouchsafe him the hearing, he could easily clear himself. She cast her Eyes upon him, without answering a word; her looks, and the difficulty she made of being appeased, heightened in the Marquis the desire of reconciliation: He made her so many protestations, and assured her he would love her eternally, that at last she yielded to the Instances of the Duchess, or rather the Oaths of the Marquis: But upon condition he would give her a true account what had occasioned him to express himself troubled for having married her, and to absent himself as he had done. The Marquis promised it, but whether he kept his word I know not, having not been able to learn the particulars of the account he gave her, which lasted all night; but 'tis very likely she was well enough satisfied, having never complained of it since: The Marquis about a Week after brought her to Brussels, and to justify himself to those who were acquainted with his passion for Christina, said, it was not in his power to resist the Decrees of Heaven, where his Marriage had been appointed many Ages ago.  
Though Christina had not heard of this Marriage, the news of it having not yet reached Spain; 'tis certain her heart misgave her some ill was towards her, which cast her frequently into melancholy the Princess had much ado to persuade her from, by telling her she was not to afflict herself beforehand, by fancying she foresaw the unfaithfulness of her Lover. Christina confessed herself to blame for't, but could not help it.  
Hearing the English Envoy was returning for London, she acquainted the Princess with the great desire she had to lay hold on that occasion, to leave Spain and go to the Marquis d' Osseyra. The Princess gave many good reasons to divert her from this resolution, but in vain; Christina acknowledging the force of her reasons, but that it was not in her power to yield to them, and that she should certainly have the displeasure to see her die with despair, if she opposed her design any longer. Loath as the Princess was to part with our Heroine, she was however forced to let her go, to prevent the mortal effects of her despair: She gave her a Letter of Recommendation to the Envoy, entreating his care of that young Spanish Gentleman, being a Person of Quality and Merit, and very desirous to go with him into England. The Princess gave her several other Letters, in her favour, addressed to Persons in good credit in the Court of his Majesty of Great Britain. Christina having resumed her Man's Habit, and the day of her departure hired a Spanish Footboy, overtook the Envoy two days journey from Madrid, not having ventured to go out of Town with him, for fear of being stayed, if discovered. The Envoy received her very courteously, easily believing the good Character the Princess gave in her Letter to him of young Montalban (as she called him) who confirmed by his Mien, and discourse, the good opinion the Envoy had of him at first sight.  
Montalban was so pleased with the thought he should shortly have a better opportunity of informing himself truly of the state of his Love Coneerns, that he appeared very cheerful and airy, which the Envoy was much taken with, but could not let him know it for want of skill in the Spanish Language, which he could not speak, though he understood it very well. Montalban pretended he had no other Language, but that, he had a small insight in the French, yet not so much as to speak it. The Envoy, who had been bred in France, was glad of that, and from thenceforth spoke to him always in French, which Montalban answered in Spanish. He maintained this Character very well, till one day the Envoy observing him in a deep study, asked him if he had left a Mistress behind him at Madrid. Montalban having his Head full of Love, and surprised with the question, answered him in French, he had not a Mistress in the World, and continued speaking in that Language, till he perceived the Envoy astonished at it; whereupon, making use of that readiness of wit which had done him so good service on former occasions, and few Women want, he fell a laughing at the Envoy's surprise, and prayed him, in Spanish, to tell him truly if he had spoken good French. The Envoy assured him, a natural Frenchman could not have spoke better. In troth, replies Montalban, I thought the Princess had but jested, when, having taught me those three or four words, she told me I pronounced them very well: I will apply myself to learn French, as soon as I come to London. You will infallibly attain it, says the Envoy you are so naturally fitted for't. Our' Heroine having, by her wit, retrieved the fault her distraction made her fall into, avoided carefully all occasions of letting him perceive she could speak French, the better to maintain the part she designed to act in England. Being arrived at London, Montalban delivered a Letter from the Princess, to the Marquis Borgamanero, Envoy extraordinary from Spain. The Marquis being an Italian born, doubted not but the young Spaniard was very well descended, as the Princess had signified by her Letter: He used him with all the civility imaginable, praying him to accept of an Apartment in his House; for, besides the respect due to the recommendation of the Princess, an Italian, or Fleming, employed in the King of Spain's service, is glad of any occasion to oblige a natural Spaniard, to take off the jealousy and umbrage they have of Strangers employed in Affairs of that Crown. Montalban would not lodge at the Marquesses, but Dined there every day, and went often to Court with him, where he was kindly received by those who espoused the interest of Spain: this was of incredible advantage to the Spaniard, the English who were used to see those of that Nation haughty and huffish, admiring the civility and good mien of Montalban. But he could not be satisfied with the care the Marquis took to divert him, nor the civilities he received from several English Courtiers, such was his impatience to know how things went in Flanders: He asked every one, what news from thence, and was told of the Preparations made for the Campaign, the provident care of the Spanish Governor for the places most in danger to be attacked, and many other particulars Montalban was not concerned in, nor cared for: But not a word of the Marquis d' Osseyra, nor durst he inquire after him, in particular, lest his Countenance should betray him, and discover the reason of his Curiosity that way. His heart misgave him still, and continued the alarms and presages of ill success to his Love, which so haunted his thoughts he could not relish any pleasure though frequently invited to partake of it. Sometimes he resolved for Brussels, to know how things stood; the next moment he discovered reasons to divert him from that design. Tormented with this inquietude, and not able to resolve what course to take, but inclining to continue in an uncertainty, which left him some poor hopes of the constancy of the Marquis d' Osseyra, rather than hazard the discovery of a truth which might plunge him in despair. As he was at Dinner at the Spanish Envoys, a Gentleman of Flanders, newly arrived from Brussels, came in to salute the Marquis Borgamanero, and deliver him Letters from the Low-Countries. The Marquis having known the Gentleman by name, received him very civilly, and made him sit at Table with him. When the Fleming had drank the Healths of all the Beauties of Brussels, his Tongue began to run, and he gave them several pieces of choice news from Flanders, adding some Gallantries of the Spanish Generals the Winter past; and, interrupting himself, now that I am fallen upon the discourse of Gallantry, Have you not heard, says he, of the officious Cheat put upon the Marquis d' Osseyra, to cure him of the violent passion he had for a French-woman. Had any one than observed Montalban's Countenance, he might have easily discovered the trouble he was in: But they were all attentive to the Flemish Gentleman's discourse, who told them, the Duchess of Arschot, by agreement with the Duke de Villa Hermosa, on pretence of favouring the Marquis d' Osseyra's Marriage with the French-woman, had married her Niece to him. Oh Heavens, cried Christina, no more minding the Name, or Nation she pretended to, and fell off of her stool. The Company thought it some Disease, or Infirmity, and every one strove to help her, attributing the Exclamation to the vioence of the Distemper, and not dreaming in the least of the true Cause of the Accident. The Envoy of Spain was the most alarmed at it, fearing, in a time where poison are so ordinary, it might be thought this Spanish Gentleman had been poisoned at his House.  
Can one have died of violent grief, I am persuaded our Heroine had taken her leave of this World, upon hearing the Gentleman's news: but a death of that kind happens not in our Age, and she, by the Marquis' care, recovered her strength pretty well, and was carried into her Chamber, where, intending to give free vent to those passions the ill news had occasioned, she had the dexterity to get rid of the importunate care of those who accompanied her, by telling them she was often subject to Infirmities of that kind, and had learned by experience that rest was the only, and infallible Cure. As soon as she was alone, she burst out into tears, and her fancy, to her further torment, represented to her a thousand unpleasant things to increase her grief, which was swelled to that height the most cruel death would have been welcome. After much debate with herself, she thought it fit for her to return into her Country, and spend there the rest of her days in a Cloister, her Virtue sugg●●● 〈◊〉 her she was obliged to make the World this amends for all the innocent scandals she had given it.  
Upon the news of the Accident at the Spanish Envoys, the pretended Montalban was visited by several Persons of the best Quality: The Gentleman, who had brought the news of the Marquis d' Osseyra's being married, thought himself obliged in civility to give him a visit. Christina (or, if you will, Montalban) was a bed when this Gentleman came to his Lodging: Montalban gave order he should come in, and the ordinary civilities being over, told him he was sorry his Infirmity had deprived him of hearing the particulars of the Marquis d' Osseyra's Marriage: The Gentleman offered to make him the Relation; Montalban answering, he would much oblige him in it, the Gentleman acquainted him with all the Circumstances of the Affair, without perceiving the change it produced in our Heroine's Countenance, who had (to prevent his discovery) drawn her Bed Curtain that she might not be seen. The Fleming being retired, Christina fell again into tears, yet without any murmuring against the Marquis d' Osseyra, whom she could not accuse of infidelity. As strongly as she laboured to confirm her resolution of going into a Monastery, she found within her no small reluctancy against the putting it in execution: so hard a Task was it to disengage herself from the inclinations she had for a Person she had loved so entirely, and esteemed so worthy of her affection: After much struggling and striving with herself she resolved to send him a Letter, which was written as followeth.  
I shall never believe any one can die of grief, since I have survived the sad news of your Marriage, attended with such Circumstances as make me despair, without leaving me the liberty to complain of you: Was it not enough to lose you, but I must, with the loss, have the cruel and doleful satisfaction to know I lost you against your will? Had you been ungrateful for the affection I bore you, the consideration of your unfaithfulness would have, in some measure, allayed my sense of the loss of you: But while I adore you, and you love me, another enjoys you. Pardon the trouble my grief forces me to give you, in bidding you adieu for ever. When you know how easily I part with the World, you will be sensible I continued in it thus long only for your sake; and since you cannot be mine any longer, I shall quickly take leave of it with very little concern.  
Christina having heard that the Spanish Envoy sent a Gentleman with Letters into Flanders, desired him to deliver this to the Marquis d' Osseyra, and tell him, the Party who sent it expected not his answer. Our Heroine having written this Letter, found herself somewhat better at ease; she weighed the design she had of entering a Covent, and found it in truth a course of Life wholly unsuitable to her humour: She considered how many made their Lives unhappy by embracing a Profession out of despair, or to please their Friends, or for other like reasons contrary to their inclinations: She chose rather to seek out an opportunity to perish gloriously in the Wars, than to languish many years in an unhappy condition, not doubting but the thoughts of her beloved Marquis would haunt her in the most private retirements. This made her throw off the relics of weakness her Sex had left her, and having heard that his Majesty of France had opened the Campaign by the Conquest of Ghent, she continued her disguise, and went into the Army with two or three English Volunteers, who went to learn the Rudiments of War under that great Master. The Town of Ypres being besieged about that time, our Heroine to avoid meeting with those who might probably know her, during her long abode formerly there, consulted rather the motions of despair, than endeavoured to signalise herself by Actions of extraordinary valour: She mingled herself one day with a Detachment of the Regiments of the King's Household, who with Sword in hand took a Halfmoon, where Christina received a Musquet-shot, and was carried to her Tent. The Surgeons, less Complaisant in the Army than elsewhere, judged her Wound mortal: The English, who came with her from London, and still thought the pretended Gentleman a Spaniard, fancied he had received the Wound by endeavouring to put himself into the Spanish service, by getting into the Town: This made them acquaint the Marquis de Conflans with what had past. He was Governor of the place, and having Capitulated that very day to surrender it, the English let him know there was in the Camp, a young Gentleman, a Spaniard, called Montalban, who was wounded with a Musquet-shot, by endeavouring to get into the Town. The Marquis, well acquainted with the name, thought he might be one of the Noble Family of Montalban, the head whereof is the now Duke of Uceda, and dispatched a Colonel of the Garrison to inquire of his health, and see if he were in a condition to be carried to Brussels. The English accompanied the Colonel, and told our Heroine they had informed the Governor of Ypres of his quality, and hurt; and that he had sent thither this Colonel, to know if he would be carried to Brussels. Christina, amazed at the discourse, was pleased however at so good an occasion of going to Brussels, in hopes to see the Marquis d' Osseyra before she died: She confirmed them in their error, and having answered the colonel's civilities, as well as the condition she was in would permit her, she prayed him to tell the Marquis of Conflans, he would do him a singular favour to convey him to Brussels, which was accordingly done. Soon after her arrival there, the Marquis of Conflans informed the Court, he had brought thither a young Gentleman of Spain, who was lately come out of England to throw himself into Ypres, but was unfortunately prevented by a Musquet-shot, received as he was endeavouring to get into the Town. The Persons of the greatest Quality at Brussels, fearing to incommode Montalban with their visits, sent to inquire of his health: But he fell into a Fever, and no hopes of cure. All those about him wondered at the care he took to inquire who they were who sent to know how he did, which proceeded from the desire the supposed Montalban had to hear the Marquis d' Osseyra named for one. At last he was told, that this Marquis, being newly returned from Bruges, had sent a Gentleman to inquire of his health. Montalban was so glad of it, that those who attended him observed a visible change in his looks: Having fetched two or three fighs, he said, he should be very glad to see the Marquis, having something of Consequence to Communicate to him. The Marquis being informed of it, ran to him immediately, fancying him to be a Gentleman of the House of Montalban, who had been of his acquaintance in Spain. As the Marquis entered the Room, they told him the Gentleman was speechless. The Marquis went hastily up to the Bed, and looking steadfastly on the Person that lay there, knew her to be his Christina, a dying: She reached forth her Arm, and taking him by the Hand, made him sensible of the satisfaction she had, to see him before she died. The tragic Spectacle so affected the Marquis, he was ready to fall down dead for sorrow: He continued many days retired in a religious House, and incapable of comfort for being the cause of our Heroine's death, he resolved to quit that Country where a hundred Objects would every day represent to his memory, the death of Christina: He made use of his Friends to procure him Employment elsewhere, and in a short time after received Orders from Spain to go and Command in Biscay.   
FINIS.